If you want to attract more birds to your garden, providing fresh water is one of the best ways to do it. While bird feeders can encourage some species to visit, a bird bath will attract a much wider variety of birds because every bird needs water for drinking, bathing and keeping cool.

A reliable source of clean water makes life much easier for birds, especially during long, hot Australian summers. Combined with bird-friendly plants and, where appropriate, supplementary feeding, a bird bath can help turn almost any garden into a haven for native birds.

As well as being practical, an ornamental bird bath or well-designed bird feeder can become an attractive feature in the garden, adding interest while supporting local wildlife.

Why Water Is So Important

Unlike food, which many birds can find naturally, fresh water is essential every day. Birds use water to:

• Drink
• Bathe and keep their feathers in good condition
• Cool down during hot weather
• Remove dust and parasites from their plumage

One of the great advantages of a bird bath is that it attracts a much wider range of birds than feeders alone.

Choosing a Bird Bath

Bird baths are available in many different materials, including sandstone, concrete, bronze, terracotta, mosaic and ceramic. The style you choose is largely a matter of personal preference, but there are a few features that make a bird bath more attractive to birds.

Look for:

• Shallow, gently sloping sides
• A rough surface that provides secure footing
• Easy entry and exit
• Stable construction that won’t tip over

Raised bird baths are generally preferable as they help keep birds away from cats and other predators. A larger bird bath usually attracts more visitors, although several smaller bird baths placed around the garden can work just as well.

Where to Position a Bird Bath

Position your bird bath where birds feel safe.

Choose a location:

• Close to shrubs or small trees where birds can quickly seek shelter
• Away from areas frequented by cats and dogs
• In partial shade to help keep the water cool
• Away from overhanging branches that constantly drop leaves into the water
• Somewhere you can easily see and enjoy visiting birds

For most small garden birds, the water only needs to be a few centimetres deep. If your bird bath is deeper, place a few smooth stones in the base to create shallow areas for smaller birds.

Can You Make Your Own Bird Bath?

With a little imagination and some basic DIY skills, it’s easy to make your own bird bath.

Whatever you use should:

• Hold water securely
• Be made from non-toxic materials
• Provide a shallow area for smaller birds
• Be stable and safe

Simple ideas include:

• A large terracotta plant saucer placed on a sturdy pedestal
• A shallow ceramic bowl
• A sandstone slab with a shallow depression
• An old metal bin lid or hubcap mounted on a timber or metal stand

If using recycled materials, make sure they are clean, free from rust and safe for wildlife.

Bird Feeders

Whether to use a bird feeder is often debated.

Many native birds obtain most of their food naturally from insects, nectar, seeds and fruit. By planting suitable bird-attracting trees and shrubs, you’ll encourage a wide range of birds to visit throughout the year as different plants come into flower or produce seed.

However, as natural habitat continues to decline, supplementary feeding can provide an additional food source when used responsibly.

A bird feeder should never replace natural food sources but can complement a bird-friendly garden.

Choosing a Bird Feeder

Bird feeders are available in many different designs to suit different species and feeding habits.

Some are simple seed trays, while others automatically dispense seed as birds feed. Some designs also incorporate a small water supply.

When choosing a bird feeder, look for:

• Non-toxic materials
• Sturdy construction
• Easy access for birds
• Protection from rain to keep seed dry
• A size suited to the birds you hope to attract

For example, a King Parrot requires a much larger feeding platform than a small finch.

Natural timber is generally a good choice. While painted feeders may look attractive, avoid paints or finishes that could be harmful if pecked by birds.

Where to Place a Bird Feeder

Position bird feeders where birds can feed safely.

Choose a location that is:

• Well away from cats and dogs
• Close to shrubs or trees for quick cover
• Sheltered from strong winds
• Easy to access for cleaning and refilling

Avoid placing feeders directly beside large windows where birds may accidentally fly into the glass.

Keeping Bird Feeders Clean

Clean feeders are healthier for birds.

Remove old food regularly, wash the feeder with hot water and allow it to dry before refilling. Fresh food and clean water help reduce the risk of disease spreading between visiting birds.

Always replace stale or mouldy seed and never leave spoiled food sitting in the feeder.

What Should You Feed Birds?

If you decide to provide supplementary food, choose foods appropriate for the bird species visiting your garden.

Avoid feeding:

• Bread
• Salty foods
• Processed human foods
• Mouldy seed

Commercial bird seed mixes suitable for local bird species are generally a better option. The best way to support birds, however, is still to provide a garden rich in flowering native plants, shrubs and trees that supply natural food throughout the year.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Garden

Bird baths and bird feeders work best when combined with a wildlife-friendly garden.

Planting native trees, shrubs and flowering plants provides food, shelter and nesting sites while reducing the need for supplementary feeding.

Even a small garden, courtyard or balcony can become a welcome stopping place for birds with fresh water, suitable plants and a safe environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I clean a bird bath?

Rinse it every few days and give it a thorough scrub every few weeks. During hot weather, clean and refill it more frequently to keep the water fresh.

Where is the best place to put a bird bath?

Place it in partial shade, close to shrubs for protection, and well away from areas where cats or dogs may disturb visiting birds.

Are bird feeders good for native birds?

Bird feeders can provide supplementary food, but they should not replace the natural food available from a well-planted garden.

Can I make my own bird bath?

Yes. Many gardeners use plant saucers, shallow bowls or recycled containers mounted securely on a stand. Just make sure the materials are non-toxic and the water remains shallow enough for birds to bathe safely.

Providing clean water, suitable plants and a safe place to visit is one of the simplest and most rewarding ways to attract birds to your garden. Whether you choose a traditional bird bath, a simple homemade design or a well-maintained bird feeder, you’ll be helping local birdlife while adding movement, colour and enjoyment to your outdoor space.

Where To Buy Bird baths

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