Frequently Asked Questions

General FAQ for Bird Bath Supply...

How deep should the water be in my bird bath?
The water should be deep enough for the bird to effectively bathe, but not so deep it can drown. Birds need to perch at the water's edge or in the water. Putting stones in the bowl gives the bird a place to perch in the water. Some bird baths have a raised area in the middle for perching

How often should I clean my bird bath?
Birds need clean, fresh water for bathing and drinking. Diseases are easily transmitted in dirty water. Depending on the location and amount of birds, your bird bath can need a change of water several times a week in hot weather. It is important to check the water regularly. Standing water can breed mosquitoes as quickly as 2-3 days in the summer.

Specific FAQ's on Solar Bird Baths:

Solar powered bird baths add vibrancy to your garden or patio by attracting many species of birds. A solar bird bath does not require any extra wiring or plumbing and is extremely convenient to use. Here are some frequently asked questions about solar bird baths that will help you to understand and use your solar bird bath more effectively.

How does a solar bird bath work?
A solar powered panel positioned in the bird bath bowl powers a pump in the reservoir hidden in the base. During the daytime, the panel collects energy from solar rays, which provides just enough energy to circulate the water, preventing stagnation in the process.

What are the benefits of using a solar bird bath?
Solar bird baths do not require installation of any extra wiring or plumbing and can be placed anywhere in your lawn or garden, opening up a variety of different design opportunities that would ordinarily be limited by access to electricity. Solar powered bird baths can be placed in any yard on a flat, sturdy surface. Solar powered bird baths are also very cost-efficient, as they don't require electricity.

Is any maintenance required?
Because a solar bird bath can be damaged by cold weather, it must be removed and replaced with a non-solar insert during the winter months. This is a quick and easy process, taking at most a few minutes. Like any other bath or fountain, regular cleaning is always recommended. Using natural enzyme treatments can extend the time that water will stay fresh as well as preventing unsightly grime from forming on your solar bird bath.

Why should I choose a solar bird bath over a regular bird bath?
Besides the obvious savings in energy costs and lower environmental impact, solar bird baths keep the water in the bath constantly moving. This movement attracts birds to the bath because their eyesight can detect changes in motion at a greater distance in comparison to standing water. Furthermore, for your own health and the health of the birds you love, you should do as much as possible to prevent water from remaining standing for a period longer than three days. Standing water is a breeding ground for mosquitoes which can spread West Nile Virus.

How dangerous is West Nile?
Over 2,450 human cases of West Nile were reported in 2004, and one-third of these cases were severe. While you can take precautions to prevent mosquitoes from biting you (such as using DEET based repellants), it is much more difficult for birds to avoid contact with them. Because no count for bird deaths in the wild can be collected, there is no absolute number available. However, bird mortality numbers used to track the spread of West Nile have reached the tens of thousands in many states. A solar fountain is a simple way for you to protect your feathered friends and yourself. More information, organized by state, can be found at the Center for Disease Control's West Nile website.