When it comes to attracting hummingbirds to your yard, providing a reliable source of clean water is one of the most effective strategies. Hummingbirds get most of their water from flower nectar, but they also need plain water for bathing and preening. A dedicated hummingbird bath or dripper can entice these tiny birds to visit your garden regularly. But where is the best place to position a hummingbird bath or drippers so they get used? Here are some tips on optimal placement.
Location, Location, Location
One of the most important factors in hummingbird bath placement is finding a strategic location that hummingbirds naturally frequent. Hummingbirds often travel along the same routes through the yard every day, visiting favored flowers and perches. Placing the bird bath or drippers along these flight paths increases the chances the hummingbirds will discover it and return regularly to bathe and drink. Observe hummingbird activity in your yard for a couple of weeks and note their most frequented travel corridors, then position the bird bath accordingly. Other good locations are near nectar feeders or colorful, tubular flowers that attract hummingbirds. Just be sure the bath is positioned in a quiet spot away from potentially disturbing activity.
Choose a Sunny Spot
Hummingbirds are sun-loving creatures and they will be more inclined to visit a bird bath placed in full sun. The warmed water is more appealing than cold water on chilly mornings. Full sun also helps keep the water clean and free of algae. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight if possible. If shade is unavoidable, be vigilant about scrubbing and changing the water every few days to remove any green build-up.
Near Perches and Protection
Hummingbirds feel safest stopping at a bird bath when there are plenty of perches and protected cover nearby. Position the hummingbird bath near trees, shrubs, or vines that provide shelter as well as landing spots. Bare branches, trellises, and garden art can also serve as stations for the birds to momentarily rest as they move between bathing and feeding. This helps them feel secure and provides an easy way for them to check out the bath before fully committing to dipping in.
Allow a 3-Foot Radius
Hummingbirds are easily startled, so allow them plenty of space when approaching the bird bath. Position the bath at least 3 feet away from feeders, fences, trees, and other potential hiding spots for predators. A 360-degree open clearance around the bath gives the birds a chance to escape in any direction and prevents startling collisions with objects as they zip around. This open space also allows you full visibility so you can observe the hummingbirds from indoors.
Avoid Disturbances
For optimal use, hummingbird baths should be placed in tranquil spots away from noisy activity. Loud voices, barking dogs, lawn mowers, and foot traffic can deter hummingbirds from frequenting the bath. Find a quiet corner of the yard that sees minimal disturbances throughout the day. Face the bath away from the busiest areas of your landscape. The more peaceful the location, the more comfortable the birds will feel bathing and drinking there for extended periods.
Type of Bird Bath
Once you have settled on the ideal location, the next decision is which style of hummingbird bath best suits your space and needs. There are two main options when it comes to hummingbird baths: drippers and traditional baths.
Drippers
Drippers provide a gentle, consistent water flow from small spouts into a shallow basin or through protruding “flowers”. The dropping and dripping entices hummingbirds to come take a drink and is preferable for some birders because it minimizes the risk of drowning. Drippers should be positioned at least 1-3 feet above the ground and can be hung from trees, rafters, poles, fences, or deck railings. They are versatile and great for smaller spaces that cannot accommodate a full bird bath. Just be sure to check them regularly to ensure the water flow is steady.
Traditional Bird Baths
Standard baths are receptacles filled with water for swimming, bathing, and drinking. The most critical element is keeping the water level relatively shallow – no more than 1-2 inches deep and with sloped sides for easy access. This allows the hummingbird to stand comfortably in the center. The bath should also be wide enough in diameter for the birds to spread their wings for bathing. Select durable materials like concrete, ceramic, glass, or metal that can weather the elements and are easy to keep clean.
Bird Bath or Dripper: Which is Better?
| Bird Bath | Dripper |
|---|---|
|
|
Both drippers and standard baths can effectively attract hummingbirds to your yard. Choose whichever style best suits your landscape setup, maintenance preferences, and budget.
Bird Bath Setup Tips
Proper setup of your hummingbird bath helps encourage frequent visiting. Here are tips on getting your bird bath ready for action:
Use a Special Nectar Blend
Skip the plain water and fill your hummingbird bath with a homemade nectar solution instead. Mix 1 part white granulated sugar with 4 parts hot water until dissolved. Let this cool to room temperature before pouring into the bath. The sweet liquid is more enticing and provides needed nutrition and energy. Avoid any artificial sweeteners, dyes, or food additives — plain sugar water only.
Add Pebbles or Marbles
Place a few clean pebbles or marbles in the bottom of the bath. This gives hummingbirds something to stand on so they can drink without getting entirely wet if desired. The stones also add some needed traction on slick surfaces. Just opt for smooth rocks that will not snag the birds’ delicate feet.
Situate on a Pedestal
Elevate the hummingbird bath on a pedestal at least 3 feet off the ground. Poles, tripods, tables, tree stumps, or stacked bricks work well to provide adequate height. Positioning it at eye level makes it easy to observe the bath activity from indoors. Mark the pedestal clearly if it could be a tripping hazard.
Ensure a Non-Slip Surface
The surface area around the hummingbird bath should have a non-slip texture so the birds have steady footing when approaching from all angles. Add a wire mesh mat, textured patio pavers, pea gravel, or natural stone pathway leading to and surrounding the bath. This gives them secure traction when maneuvering during approach and takeoff.
Provide an Insect Escape Route
Hummingbirds sharing a bird bath inevitably attract flying insects as well, particularly bees and wasps. To prevent accidental drowning of beneficial pollinators, add a sloped stick, ramp, or overturned nursery pot partially submerged in the water. This allows any unlucky insects that fall in a chance to safely climb out.
Maintenance Tips
Consistent maintenance keeps your hummingbird bath safe, sanitary, and appealing for visiting birds. Here are some tips for proper upkeep:
Change the Water Daily
Empty and refresh the water in your hummingbird bath each day, or even multiple times per day in hot weather. Stagnant water can breed bacteria and disease. Use a scrub brush and mild soap to remove any built-up residue if needed.
Avoid Chemicals
Never add chemicals like bleach, chlorine, or disinfectants to the bird bath, even when cleaning. The fumes and residue can burn the hummingbirds’ skin and beak tissues. Simply scrub with a natural eco-friendly cleaner and plain water instead.
Clean the Bowl Weekly
Every week, give the bath a thorough scrub with a natural brush and warm, soapy water. This prevents scale build-up and removes clinging dirt or algae film. Avoid abrasive scrubbers that could scratch the surface. Rinse very thoroughly after cleaning.
Wipe Down Perches
When cleaning the bath, also take time to wipe down any nearby tree branches, trellises, poles, or garden art the hummingbirds use as perches. This removes any fungus or lichen growths that could spread to the birds when they visit.
Prevent Freezing
In winter, bring the hummingbird bath inside anytime temperatures dip below freezing. The water can freeze onto the birds’ feathers and lead to injury or death. Drain any standing water so the receptacle does not crack as it expands.
Conclusion
Attracting hummingbirds to your yard with a dedicated bird bath takes strategic placement and consistent care, but the reward of drawing these special birds close is well worth it. Follow these guidelines on optimal bath location, setup, and maintenance. With a healthy dose of patience for the hummingbirds to discover it, your new bath will soon become a popular oasis for your feathered visitors.
