Why Hydration Matters
Native birds, including our beloved tūī, bellbird, silvereye, and fantail, require water year-round, especially in hot or dry spells. But even in winter, birds need to bathe regularly to maintain the health and cleanliness of their feathers. You might even see them attempting to crack through ice in bird baths during the colder months to access water!
Creating the Ideal Bird Bath
When planning a bird hydration station, two keywords should guide you: naturalandsafe.
Natural: A good bird bath mimics natural water sources. It should be shallow, with plenty of space for birds to rest and recover. Stones or rocks in the centre provide perches for small birds as they bathe. This setup also offers them a place to rest if they need to flee from predators or disturbances.
Safe: The bath should be made from a heavy material so it doesn’t tip over. Position it away from predators such as cats, stoats, and ferrets. The bath should be elevated but not so high that it’s inaccessible to smaller birds. Ideally, place it near shrubs or trees, where birds can find quick cover if needed.
Maintenance
Like any dining or drinking establishment, your bird bath will require regular maintenance. Dirty water can spread disease, so it’s important to clean the bath with warm, soapy water and a dedicated brush at least once a week and refill it with fresh water every two to three days.
Popular Bird Bath Options
The Topflite Splash & Feed is a popular choice for many bird lovers. Made from heavy ceramic, it’s versatile enough to serve as a drinking station and a feeding place, offering fresh water, seeds, and fruit. Some enthusiasts buy two, keeping one for each purpose, ensuring they can cater to various bird needs.
Hanging water feeders with wide, open dishes are also a great option for keeping birds hydrated. You can even offer sugar water during the colder months to provide extra energy for high-flying visitors.
Conclusion
Creating a bird-friendly garden goes beyond providing food and shelter – hydration is key to attracting and sustaining healthy bird populations. By including a well-placed, safe, and natural bird bath in your garden, you can ensure that New Zealand’s native birds stay hydrated and happy throughout the year.
