For small birds, such as song sparrows and chickadees, a bird bath that is 1 to 2 inches deep is ideal. For larger birds, such as cardinals and jays, a bird bath that is 3 inches deep is best. The diameter of the bird bath should be large enough to accommodate several birds at once, but not so large that the birds feel crowded.
When choosing the height of a bird bath, it is also important to consider the height of the surrounding vegetation. The bird bath should be high enough so that the birds can easily reach it, but not so high that they feel exposed to predators. A bird bath that is 1 to 2 feet off the ground is usually ideal.
Here are some additional tips for choosing and placing a bird bath:
- Choose a bird bath that is made of a durable material, such as concrete, ceramic, or metal.
- Place the bird bath in a shady spot, away from direct sunlight.
- Add some stones or pebbles to the bird bath to provide perching spots for the birds.
- Keep the bird bath clean and free of algae.
- Change the water in the bird bath regularly, especially during hot weather.