Table of Contents 1. 2. Some plants to consider are:3. You may also consider providing some natural perches that allow birds waiting to use the bird bath somewhere to wait. These could include:4.

It’s all too easy for us to be so focused on feeding the birds that visit our gardens, that we forget about the other essential of life – water. Many of our garden birds, particularly finches and sparrows, have diets consisting largely of dry seeds, so unlike insect-eaters that get some moisture from their prey, seed-eaters need to drink frequently to stay hydrated.

This is not only relevant during dry spells, when natural puddles and streams can vanish, but also in winter when the ground is frozen, as birds can often struggle to find liquid water. As a result, your garden can become the only source of water for miles during summer and the winter months.

The need for clean, fresh water isn’t just for drinking. For many garden birds, bathing is a safety requirement as the water can loosen dirt and debris from their feathers. After bathing, they often preen by spreading oil from a gland at the base of their tail, which keeps their feathers waterproof and insulating. Dampening the feathers also makes them more flexible. If feathers become brittle or dirty, the bird’s flight becomes less efficient, making them easier targets for predators like Sparrowhawks.

But when offering water for drinking or bathing, it needs to be clean. Stagnant, dirty water can become a breeding ground for bacteria and parasites, including trichomonosis, the severe respiratory parasite (common in Greenfinches and Chaffinches) that spreads through contaminated water and food. Avian flu is also a concern when it comes to any location where birds gather, making hygiene paramount. Dirty water can facilitate the spread of viruses between different species that congregate at your bath. Bird droppings in the water of a bird bath can quickly increase nitrogen levels, leading to toxic algal blooms that can make birds or other wildlife ill or even kill them.

Offering a constant source of clean water may also help to attract more species to your garden. While some birds might skip your feeders, almost every British garden species needs water. By providing a clean bath, you are likely to attract birds that don’t usually eat seeds from your feeding station, such as thrushes, Blackbirds, and Wrens, or common Whitethroats or Chiffchaffs during their migration.

As with the feeding station, it is often a good idea to provide the birds with some plants nearby to provide cover. The best plants to grow are those that provide easy access to the cover and offer sturdy perches. Birds are most vulnerable to predators when they are wet and their flight is heavy, so having a safe place just a short distance away is essential. Try to ensure that this distance is close enough for a bird to dash into if a cat appears, but far enough that a cat can’t use the plant to ambush the bird bath.

Some plants to consider are:
  • Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna): A native plant that is dense, with thorny branches that provide protection from predators. In autumn, the “haws” (berries) are a favourite for Redwings and Fieldfares.
  • Holly (Ilex aquifolium): Being evergreen, holly provides vital shelter during a harsh winter. The prickly leaves are a natural deterrent to cats.
  • Pyracantha (Firethorn): Though not native, it is one of the best for nesting and protection. It forms a wall of thorns and produces large crops of red, orange, or yellow berries.

You may also consider providing some natural perches that allow birds waiting to use the bird bath somewhere to wait. These could include:
  • Silver Birch (Betula pendula): Its branches make perfect perches for smaller birds like Blue Tits and Goldfinches.
  • Rowan (Sorbus aucuparia): Often called the “Mountain Ash,” it is a small-garden friendly tree. It is open and provides great visibility for birds to scan the area before dropping down for a drink.
  • Elder (Sambucus nigra): Fast-growing and provides branches that are easy for small birds to grip.

Wherever you decide to place your bird bath, it’s advisable to locate it so it has 360-degree visibility for the birds, but with one of these thorny shrubs (like Hawthorn or Pyracantha) within a two-second flight. This combination of clear view and nearby thorns should provide essential water in a safe environment.