A usable bird bath is almost more important in winter than in summer. While the birds find plenty of watering holes in the warm season, these are few and far between when the temperatures are below zero. But in order for the targeted water supply to work smoothly, a number of challenges have to be mastered.

Birds are thirsty even in winter

bird bath and cold

The bird bath has to pass two tests every winter: it must not burst, which is easily possible if it is exposed to frost. And the water in it must remain liquid and therefore drinkable. In a mild winter, this may still work on its own. Otherwise, however, the winter cold must be kept in mind when setting up a bird bath.

Winterized potions

Almost any waterproof material can be used to make a summer bird bath. Most of these drinking troughs have to be put back in the fall and set up again in the spring. If they stay outside, the frost can cause them irreparable damage. The bird bath shatters into two or more pieces. In the best case, it only loses its attractive appearance because the material quality suffers.

In order to be able to supply the wild birds with water in winter, you should make sure that you have a winter-proof bird bath right from the start. The question of the material is a crucial one.

Suitable materials

  • Bird baths made of natural stone can be used all year round
  • some plastics are also not sensitive to frost
  • some types of wood are weather-resistant
  • even metal can withstand frost

tips

When you buy a bird bath, find out how much frost it can take.

Build your own bird bath

Bird baths made of natural stone are winterproof but also expensive. But you can make a frost-resistant concrete bird bath yourself. You can get the necessary material cheaply in any hardware store. With a little imagination and craftsmanship, you can conjure up not only a functional but also a decorative potion out of concrete.

prevent ice formation

Keeping the bird bath free of ice in winter is an important task for any animal lover. No bird can quench its thirst at an icy waterhole. You can decide for yourself which of the following methods is practical for you. Perhaps you have other ideas on how to accomplish this endeavor.

  • Change water regularly
  • or top up with warm water
  • Place potions over a grave light
  • or via a special commercially available heating plate
  • if necessary, buy a heated drinking trough

Category:

Garden design