Landscape 101

A dry, hot summer beckons, which is great for us but not so much for birds. A well-chosen and well-placed bird bath will be helpful to them while bringing life and interest into the garden.

The birds won’t care whether it is classic or classical, modern or modish. They are more interested in the bath’s depth being no deeper than 4cm, and that shape of the bowl is shallower at the edges, making it easier for them to enter. They are also keen on non-slip surfaces. Concrete is fine, but if yours is glazed ceramics, then add some fine gravel to the bottom. A few rocks in the bowl will also allow them somewhere to drink without getting wet.

No longer is the middle of the lawn considered the optimum spot for a bird bath. Instead, place it in the shade – ideally a couple of metres away from trees or shrubs – and at a safe distance from prowling cats, yet still offering birds the security of an escape, especially when wet. Total shade isn’t vital but at least protect it from the hot mid- to late-afternoon sun to help keep the water fresh and cool. Changing the water every couple of days will also help stop insects, notably mosquitos laying their eggs in it. Who wants their bath to be a breeding ground? Enjoy too, the many insects that will be thankful for the still water you provide – bees, butterflies and those symbols of lazy summer days, dragonflies.

Bird baths should also be placed where they can be easily spotted by birds from above. Position it somewhere where the birds’ bathing antics can be seen and enjoyed by your household, but not too close to a window that birds might fly into.