Help the birds in winter: tips to keep birdbaths from freezing

The harsh winter temperatures, particularly in colder regions, pose significant challenges for the local wildlife, including the birds that visit our gardens. Providing a bird bath is a thoughtful way to assist birds (and other wildlife). However, when the water freezes, the birdbath basically becomes useless.

While birds can adapt to using snow for hydration, the energy they expend in trying to warm it for consumption is considerable. Dealing with ice presents an even greater challenge for birds. Fortunately, we can easily help them out.

Considering that the global population of birds is dwindling every year - mainly due to human activities encroaching on their natural habitats - it is a noble cause to help birds out in any way possible.

Which materials to use for food trays and birdbaths in the winter?

Peter Trimming/Flickr

Birdbaths can be made of various materials and most frequently, they are made of concrete, ceramic, glass, metal or plastic.

Glass and ceramic feeders/baths are not recommended: they can break easily, especially in winter.

Concrete or cement feeders/baths are also not recommended. These materials react negatively to fluctuating temperatures, cracking after a while. And the same can happen to plastic too. That said, resin objects can be acceptable.

The best material, therefore, is metal. Be careful, though: in summer, metal heats up easily. It is therefore better to have a different solution for each half of the year.

Another tip: Birds, especially in winter, should be able to drink without having to get into the water. Help them by placing rocks on the edge so that they can perch on them to get a drink!

Tips to prevent the birdbath from freezing in winter

Pxhere

There are various strategies to ensure a steady water supply for the birds that visit our gardens:

• Use floating objects: use items like bath toys, rubber balls, or cork stoppers that float to keep the water moving. This helps prevent freezing without frightening the birds, especially when temperatures aren't very cold.
• Regular water changes: make it a routine to change the water daily or add some hot water when it freezes.
• Optimal sun placement: if the birdbath is mobile, consider moving it to a sunny spot. While not advisable in summer, sunlight becomes a good, natural way to prevent freezing.
• Use technology: explore using devices like de-icers and water heaters, powered by electricity (with outdoor usage capabilities) or solar energy, designed to prevent water from freezing.
• Manual ice management: clearing away ice manually or emptying the birdbath out before nighttime when temperatures drop and refilling it with fresh water the next morning, can significantly contribute to the birds' well-being.

These simple measures, can have a substantial, positive impact on the survival and comfort of our avian friends.