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Birds can become an important part of your garden as they add vibrancy and beauty to outdoor spaces. With summer around the corner, it is the best time to show our beloved garden birds some love. However, several common mistakes can prevent birds from gathering in your garden.
An expert revealed that correcting a single mistake can transform your garden into a haven for birds. Helen Nyul, group head of biodiversity at David Wilson Homes and the RSPB, explained that it is extremely important not to place the bird bath in the wrong place. She told Ideal Home: “Just as you should know where to never position a bird box, the same is true of a bird bath. In fact, placing it in direct sunlight or without protection from predators could be one of the worst bird bath mistakes you might make.”
The expert revealed that the right placement of the bird bath will make them “feel safe”.
She added: “Birds will only use it if they feel safe, so the placement of a bird bath is very important. Birds can become preoccupied with bathing, leaving them more vulnerable than at other times.
“For this reason, birds will need to have clear visibility as they bathe to watch out for any predators, whilst also having nearby bushes or trees to provide cover and safety, if alarmed.”
The expert stated the bird bath should be kept out of direct sunlight.
She said that it is “important to place a bird bath out of direct sunlight to prevent the water from becoming excessively hot and uncomfortable.”
She further explained that this practice is particularly useful during the warmer summer months, helping the water last longer. Additionally, cooler water slows down algae growth, keeping the bird bath cleaner for an extended period.
According to the RHS, approximately 30 species of bird are regular garden visitors, although more than 140 bird species have been recorded in British gardens.
Some are seasonal visitors such as house martins in summer or redwings in winter. Others such as robins and blackbirds are resident year round and can become very familiar faces in the garden or allotment.
