LEAVE ROOM FOR A LARGE BIRD BATH
For what is largely a decorative item, there are lots of underlying benefits to adding a feature bird bath to your plot. Firstly, a substantial amount of water will attract beneficial insects to the garden, many to have a drink, and go on to help pollinate plants or predate other pest insects, too. Of course, birds
will love you for adding one – they appreciate vital water supplies all year round to quench their thirst, and to preen their dusty feathers. And, of course, more birds means fewer slugs and bugs!
Any statue-like feature will catch the eye, but filled with water it will reflect the sunshine, ripple attractively and catch the ears, too.
Top tips
Add your bird bath in an open spot, so you can admire its watery reflections and striking form, and so you can do a spot of bird watching, too. Birds will like it in the open, where they can look out for potential predators – though a shrub or two nearby will offer shelter when needed. The larger the be er for bird baths – they’ll be more noticeable and effective, but the water in them can still be quite shallow if you wish. If it’s too deep birds may drown. Sloping sides and a rough surface will mean be er access for a number of wildlife. Clean regularly – bird bath hygiene is of the utmost importance.