A Broad Survey of Preferred Solar Energy Bird Baths

Aug 30
08:11

2008

Trevor Price

Trevor Price

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Solar bird baths let you have the beauty and tranquility of running water without the nuisance of running a cord across your lawn or needing to depend on battery power.

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Solar bird baths let you enjoy frequent feathered visitors and a lovely garden ornament but without the hassle of running power to a water pump. The sound of moving water is not only tranquil - it also attracts birds,A Broad Survey of Preferred Solar Energy Bird Baths Articles who listen for water sources as they migrate.

Read on for an overview of some popular solar bird bath fountains, along with a few tips and tricks on how to care for your fountain.

ITEM and PRICE: Plow and Hearth Bird Bath - $190 (plowandhearth.com)
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: A pedestal bird bath with a solar-powered fountain.
REVIEW: The fountain pump is invisible and recessed, but provides a constant source of moving and bubbling water that attracts birds. However, there is no battery in case the day turns cloudy or shade puts an end to your bird party. Finally, this popular bird bath is made from solid copper, and while it's attractive - it may be too slippery. Try filling the bottom with rough stones or sand.

ITEM and PRICE: Chelsea Solar Fountain; $299; Frontgate - frontgate.com
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: A solar-powered, double basin bird fountain
REVIEW: Despite being on the pricier end of the scale, even this model doesn't come with a backup battery to supply power on a cloudy day. Also, the pedestal design isn't optimal as most birds prefer a ground-level water source. However, the synthetic Stonecast material is grip-safe, attractive and durable.

ITEM and PRICE: Solar Bird Baths by Guildford - $129
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Double basin, solar bird fountain
REVIEW: The Guildford solar bird bath is made from a durable material with a rough, stone-like surface that's easy to grip. Birds will love the burbling water and the security of a non-slippery surface. The Guildford fountain is sold as a pedestal, but the two-tiered basin can also be removed and placed on the lawn.

Caring for a Solar Bird Bath

One of the most important things you should address when you first purchase a solar fountain or bird bath is to coat the bowl with an outdoor sealant. This will keep the finish intact and looking great, no matter what weather conditions come your way. Also, let the sealant dry fully before filling it with water - you don't want to accidentally poison your bird visitors.

The next key factor in maintaining and caring for solar bird baths is to watch the water levels on very windy or sunny days. The heat and wind can cause your low water levels to quickly dissipate, eventually evaporating it all. If the pump is still running, it could burn out. To avoid this problem, look for a bath that's shallow, but also large and slightly deeper in the middle.