Pet Topics

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: Solar powered bird bath with a small 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: Frontgate Solar Fountain - $299 (frontgate.com)
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: A solar-powered, double basin bird fountain
REVIEW: Definitely pricey. Also, the pedestal style is attractive, but may dissuade some birds that prefer water sources which are closer to the ground. The fountain is built using Stonecast, a synthetic material that has a non-slippery surface and is durable enough to leave outside all year. Like most solar fountains, this model does not store power and won’t work on a shady or overcast day.

ITEM and PRICE: Guildford Solar Bird Baths Fountain; $129; Guildford
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION: Double basin, solar bird fountain
REVIEW: Made from resin with a rough, stone-like finish - making it easy to grip - is durable and attractive to most bird species. However, while the pedestal design may only attract birds willing to look for water above ground level, the fountain bath can be lifted off the pedestal and placed on the ground instead.

Solar Bird Bath Maintenance

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 and invoke the need for its health care.

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.