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Make your own bird bath

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Why? Because who doesn’t love a summer splash!

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HOT FACT

Birds are warm-blooded and have a very high metabolic rate…their average body temperature is 105 degrees Fahrenheit

Not that this needs any explanation…but so much of what we’re doing together is rejuvenating our planet, taking care of every creature, of every space, of each other. What can make us happier than making someone or something happy (even if they’re getting on our nerves). And a daunting number of bird species in the UK have markedly declining populations, so everything we can do to attract them into our gardens and contribute to their thriving is vital (and joyful!).

So, the word on the street is that the tweeters are feeling hot, hot, hot…Despite their feathers acting like automatic air-con, birds get hot and thirsty just like us. And since, we’re all taking stay-cations, birds included, let’s give them a paddling pool in the garden (or balcony, wall or window sill). Want a pool too? Concentrate please. We’re looking after the birds!

So how do we make one?

Super simple! Here’s how:

  1. The main thing, is to get the right kind of dish, otherwise you might land your birds in trouble. 

    • have sloping sides (not a sheer drop)
    • no deeper than about 10cm
    • ideally more than 30cm wide

    Something like an old galvanised dust bin lid works great and surprisingly attractive! So do plant pot bottoms.

  2. Feel the inside of the bird bath and if it’s slippery add some pebbles so that birds have a grip and can get out.

  3. Choose your spot. Make sure that the birds can have a 360 degree view and easily dart undercover. If there are any cats about make sure it’s not placed within pouncing distance. You can put it on a table or lay 4 bricks flat and place it on top.

  4. Fill it up with tap water. Keep it topped up and change it regularly. Do a regular clean too. Use a diluted, non-toxic disinfectant and scrub thoroughly to remove algae and droppings.

  5. Enjoy the birds larking about. You may even see bumblebees dropping by for a drink.

We got these tips from the the RSPB, you can watch their 44 second video on it here.

We loved making these - cheap, fun and of course no more unnecessary stuff. You can always buy one, especially if the DIY version is not exactly ticking your style box.

Here are three:

Post your bird care tips or suggestions in the box below, or on our socials. And…is there something you’re proud of, big or small (peat free compost bought, energy supplier swapped)? Email us, so we can feature you on our Weekly Shout Out. Everyone loves it, don’t be shy!

We…

Aimee: Well…I made one from an old terracotta salad bowl and put stones at the bottom, etc. but no birds have come so I’m feeling rejected.

Sonia: This has made me so happy. I love swimming and a nice cool dip, so it’s only fair …it took a few days for the birds to actually notice the bath and then FINALLY a robin. Tra la la! Might have to put out the deckchairs and some pool tunes to tempt the rest.

“Splish splash I was taking a bath”

Photo: Dan Wayman