About Ground Baths
Ground bird baths come in a wide range of styles, materials, sizes, and shapes to suit any bird-friendly backyard. While basic circular or oval basins are perfectly suitable, more elaborate designs often look like large leaves, rock basins, logs, or sundials, and they may even incorporate bird bath fountains or drippers for extra sound and motion to attract birds. Some ground baths include heaters for winter months, and short legs or stands are also popular to elevate the bath a few inches, protecting the grass beneath it without raising it as high as a typical pedestal bird bath. Like any birdbath design, there are both good and bad features to ground bird baths that should be considered before purchasing or installing one. While every yard is not suitable for a ground-level bath, birders who can work around the disadvantages of these styles will be amazed at how many birds appreciate the fresh water source.
Where to Buy Ground Baths
Specialized ground bird baths are easy to find at wild bird supply stores, nature stores, and garden centers, particularly in the spring and summer. Online retailers who offer a wide range of ground-level designs to choose from include, Duncraft, SongbirdGarden.com, and BestNest.com. The cost of a ground bath can range from $15 to more than $150, depending on the size and whether any heater or fountain elements are part of the design. Be sure to check for warranties, shipping information, and return policies before any purchase.
Easy Ground Bird Bath Projects
Backyard birders who want to make bird baths can create a number of ground designs quickly and easily. Popular options include:
Simple Basin: Any shallow basin can be filled with fresh water and placed on the ground for an easy, instant bird bath. Ideal choices include a pie plate, bowl, terra cotta saucer, or any similar dish. Be sure that the dish is clean and safe for food use before putting it out for the birds.Lined Puddle: Create a natural focal point for thirsty birds with a simple puddle. Dig a slight depression in the ground and cover it with pond liner or a similar tarp or heavy plastic, then use rocks or bricks to mark the edge and hold down the liner before filling with water. You can also add other accents such as a pile of stones in the center or a fallen branch to provide a suitable perch.In-Ground Basin: Bring any bath closer to the ground by digging out the sod or dirt to lower it into the ground, matching the same level as the grass. This works well with larger basins, such as an old trash can lid. Be sure the basin is secure and add gravel or stones to the center, so it is shallow enough for small birds to use.Water Dishes: A pet’s water dish can easily become a ground level bird bath. Choose an auto-watering model with a jug reservoir to provide a larger supply of fresh water for birds to enjoy. Be sure to have a different dish for pets to use so that they do not scare away any visiting birds.
Caring for Bird Baths on the Ground
Whether a bird bath is homemade or purchased, it needs to be appropriately cared for so that birds can use it safely. For a ground bird bath:
Wash the bath regularly and keep it free of debris that can rot and cause bacterial growth. Protect the bath from any lawn chemicals so that the water does not become contaminated. Add gravel or stones to the basin so that the water is no more than 1 to 2 inches deep. Position the bath near overhanging cover, so birds feel safe using it, but take steps to discourage feral cats and keep pets away from the bath, so the birds are not threatened.
A ground bath can be an easy addition to any birdscaping project and is a great way to attract more birds to a backyard. With different sizes and styles available, from simple basins to elaborate fountains, there is a ground level bird bath perfect for every birder’s backyard.
