Decorative bird baths that attract birds

Adding bird baths to your garden is a fantastic way to attract more birds to your outside space. Bird baths provide our feathered friends with fresh water to drink and bath while adding a decorative touch to your garden.

Bathing is more than a pleasure activity for birds. It removes dirt from their feathers, making it easier for them to preen – a grooming behavior that keeps their feathers in good condition. For bird lovers, finding the best bird baths is important in ensuring the birds keep coming back.

Here at vidaXL, we have a huge selection of bird baths in different shapes, sizes, styles, and materials. Whether you have a contemporary or traditional style garden, you’re sure to find a bird bath that suits your taste.

Browse our collection to find the perfect bird bath in the UK to attract birds to your garden.

The different types of bird baths

There are a few different types of bird baths in various styles. Depending on your styling needs and taste, you can choose a bird bath type that works for you. Here are the most common types of garden bird baths.

Ground

A ground bird bath is the simplest type you can find. It comes in the shape of a bowl, and you simply need to place it on the ground. Ground bird baths are great for large garden birds, such as ducks, quail, and others. However, small birds can also drink and bathe in a bird bath bowl. Alternatively, you can create this bird bath from shallow dishes.

Pedestal

This is the most popular type of bird bath. They come in different design styles, so it’s easy to find something that suits you. They are also quick and easy to assemble, though they can also be heavy. These models have an elevated basin, which protects birds from squirrels, coyotes, foxes, and other predators. They can attract both larger and tiny birds

Hanging

A hanging bird bath is essentially a shallow basin suspended by a string or cord and hung from a pole, hook, or tree. These garden bird baths are inexpensive but have a smaller capacity. They are also available in fewer designs.

Fountain

A fountain bird bath consists of a basin with continuous running water. These models are great for attracting wild birds. The movement of the water and the resulting noise makes the bird bath more noticeable to garden birds.

Heated

Heated bird baths are a popular choice in cooler climates. Although birds can melt ice using caloric energy, providing them with water for drinking and bathing enables them to conserve energy they could use in cold weather. These bird bath models do not heat water but prevent it from freezing. You may also find more advanced models that use the latest technologies.

Solar

These solar powered bird baths prevent water from freezing. They have solar panels that supply energy to a heating element or a water fountain system. In some models, you can remove the solar panels. They are a bit more expensive than other types but are more dynamic.

What material should you choose for your bird bath?

Material is one of the most critical points to consider when choosing a bird bath for a garden. Bird baths come in a range of materials. Overall, no material is better than the other. For most people, choice of material is a matter of individual preference.

Some of the most common materials include:

• Metal/cast iron
• Plastic
• Concrete
• Ceramic
• Marble
• Granite

Bird baths made of concrete and plastic often have simple designs, making it easier to clean them. They are also sturdier and last longer than their ceramic and glass counterparts.

If you have other decorative elements in your outdoor space, such as plants or structures, you can go for materials that compliment the existing style.

The weight of the material can also play a role in the selection process. This is particularly important when it comes to cleaning or moving the bird bath.

Are bird baths a good idea?

Bird bath ideas offer some of the best ways to update your outside space while adding a beautiful place for the birds to drink water and bath. With a wide range of bird bath ideas, it’s easier to find a style that works well with your garden ideas.

• Go for a minimal design

Minimalistic bird bath ideas are increasingly becoming popular. Instead of going for a statement-making bird bath, choose slim-line designs that integrate easily into your lawn. Glass and metal are some of the best materials you can choose for your minimalistic ideas. 

• Hanging bird baths are an excellent choice for small gardens

A hanging bird bath doesn’t occupy any floor space, which makes it a great addition to small gardens. A bird bath hanging on a tree or pole is not only effective in attracting birds, but also protects them from predators. Be sure to choose the right position for the bird bath.

• Use heated bird baths or bird bath fountains in winter

Having a bird bath that works all seasons is vital in ensuring the birds keep coming back. Freezing temperatures during winter make it difficult for the local wildlife to access water. Choosing a bird bath with an integrated heater will prevent the water from freezing. Bird bath fountains would also make it difficult for the water to freeze.

• Keep the bird bath clean

No matter the bird bath idea you choose, keeping your bird bath clean all the time is vital. Clean the bird bath at least thrice a week. Empty the bird bath each time you clean and scrub thoroughly using a detergent and bleach solution. Then rinse with clean water and refill. 

Do you want to attract more birds to your garden? Find the best bird baths from our collection.