Birdbaths are placed in gardens to attract wild birds. An alternative to bird feeders and houses, they draw more than one species. Feeders do not catch the attention of birds that eat insects. Houses may constrict the birds that can use them depending on the size and dimensions.
There are several kinds of birdbaths. The simplest ones are made up of a basin of water that are either placed on a stand or hung from a tree. The more complex ones are part of a fountain system. This makes sure the water in the bath is always clean. The sound of the moving water attracts birds and tells them there is a source of fresh water nearby.
An electrical source is needed to power the water pump of a bath using fountains. Most birdbaths have electrical cords that can be used to plug into an outdoor socket. These use heavy duty parts so that they are not easily damaged due to exposure to the elements.
Solar powered birdbaths use solar panels instead of connecting to your main electrical source. This removes the need to set up an outdoor electrical system. It is also easier to position the bath, and less costly to your monthly electric bill.
- Read the instructions. Different models of birdbaths have different instructions. Once you have purchased the bath you want, read the brochure or manual included in the package. Make sure you follow the instructions correctly so that the solar bath will work.
- Position the bath where it will be exposed to the sun. Since the bath will run on solar power, its solar panels must be placed facing the sun. Some baths have solar panels that can be placed at a distance from the bath itself. The area must have access to the sun regardless of changing position in the sky throughout the day.
- Place the bath in a clear area. This will also help attract more birds. The water will be visible from the ground so that they can see it even when they are flying.
- Store solar energy. Because of the bath's dependence on solar energy, it will only function when the sun is up. It will automatically stop working during cloudy periods and at night. There are some kinds of solar panels that allow you to store solar power that can be used when the bath does not have access to the sun. Check with the manufacturer to see if they have a birdbath that has this feature. If not, you can check with an electrical or hardware store for help in modifying the solar bath you have.
- Complete regular maintenance. Solar powered baths are relatively easier to maintain because they are self-sufficient. There is no need to check if the plugs are working properly. Most solar panels are durable since they were made for outdoor use. But you still need to make sure that the panels are clean so that they can absorb sunlight properly.
Aside from the power source, you need to check if the water system is working properly. The bath will be connected to an outdoor water system just like an outdoor fountain. The pipes must be maintained to prevent clogging, rust and leaks. You also need to observe if the water is still clear. A bath with dirty water is more than an eyesore, it dissuades birds as well.
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