A General Assessment Of Common Solar Run Bird Baths
Solar bird baths may seem on the surface to be simply another way to pamper animals, but they also 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. The bubbling water is not only a lovely garden element, but it also helps to attract birds.
For a review of some of the most popular models of solar bird fountains and baths, keep reading.
ITEM and PRICE: Bird Bath; $190; Plow and Hearth - 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: Two-tiered, solar-powered, pedestal bird bath with 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: Two-tiered, solar-powered, pedestal fountain bird bath
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.
Solar Bird Bath Maintenance
The best thing you can do for your solar bird bath after purchase is coat it with an outdoor sealant before using it. A spray-on sealant will protect the finish from wear and tear and keep your bird bath looking great for years to come. Once you’ve applied the sealant, make sure it’s completely dry prior to setting it out for flying visitors - this is to prevent the inadvertent poisoning of the water source and avoid the need for its health care.
Second, keep an eye on the water levels on particularly hot or windy days. Solar bird baths should maintain a relatively low water level, but don’t allow the water to evaporate since the fountain motor could actually burn itself out. Instead, try looking for a model that has a shallow, but large pool to avoid this potential problem.