Upcycle An Old Bird Bath Base Into An Adorable Water Feature
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Like humans, inanimate objects such as the classic bird bath can also benefit from occasional reinvention. Instead of a new haircut or a closet cleanout, however, these aviary watering holes just need a few creative upgrades. When upcycled with intention, they get their sparkle back and still offer a spot for local birdlife to rinse and rehydrate. But, how do you reimagine a timeless yard decoration?
TikToker @cowgirlcasanova shared how to turn a simple bird bath into a decorative feature that you and the birds will flock to by adding a simple yet eye-catching detail: a watering can (or at least a planter in the shape of one) plus a decorative pie pan. An actual watering can is acceptable depending on the opening width and the configuration of the handle, but a planter designed to look like one will offer more space. This addition gives the bath a refreshed look without taking away from its true purpose. It also provides the structure with extra height, which helps birds feel safer compared to more low-to-the-ground bird baths where they can't as easily spot predators.
All you need is a watering can, a pie pan, and accessories
Along with a used bird bath, you'll need a watering can-style planter with an opening that's at least 12 inches in diameter (enough bathing room for one bird) but ideally larger, and a pie or pizza pan that's slightly smaller in diameter (so it fits discreetly in the can's opening) and approximately 1 to 2 inches deep (the ideal bathing depth for birds). You'll also require something to put in the base of the container for the dish to rest on top of. TikTok user @cowgirlcasanova used bricks to hold up the pan, but an upturned planter is another alternative for the pie pan to sit on. You'll just need to measure the height and interior dimensions of the watering can to determine the proper planter size to go inside. Use whatever you have on hand, so long as it creates a level surface. If you choose one that's slightly shorter than the can's height, the pie dish will rest inside the opening — creating a seamless appearance from far away.
@cowgirlcasanova Hopefully they love it! ♥️ Used old bath base, pizza pan from dollar store, watering can shaped planter, some bricks and a shallow dish that's easy to clean. 🐦 🦋 ☀️ #birdbath #nature #wildlife #upcycling #springisontheway
Since pans are usually smooth and flat, add some small pebbles, with more piled along the sides and fewer toward the middle. Otherwise, birds won't want anything to do with your bird bath. The textured ground keeps birds from slipping and ultimately helps them feel more comfortable in the water since they can bathe at the depth they like best. Make life easier for you by employing a pan that's dishwasher-friendly so you don't have to scrub it clean every week. Regular cleanings are essential to stop algae growth and bird diseases from spreading. If you can just toss it in the dishwasher, it will be much less of a chore, and the birds will thank you for it!
Ways to level-up your new bird bath water feature
There are a few ways to make your upcycled watering station even better. Apart from spray-painting the old bird bath and the watering can for a more cohesive design (being sure to keep potentially toxic paints away from the pan where birds will actually bathe), you can also expand on the water feature with a DIY solar-powered fountain. This way, you get a stunning water feature that birds will gravitate to (they aren't fans of stagnant water) and prevent mosquitos from laying eggs in the bath. The Mademax Solar Bird Bath Fountain available on Amazon is designed to work in shallow water and has great reviews if you choose to go this route. To ensure water won't spill out of the pan and to keep the birds happy, choose a gentle spray setting. Most come with different nozzles so you have the option of a bubbling fountain instead of a loud geyser.
In addition to a fountain upgrade, put the rim of your existing bird bath to use. Line it with soil and plant it up with flowers and succulents that commonly grow in and around rock crevices. Try Hens n' Chicks succulents, sedum, sweet alyssum, or creeping thyme, as each of these plants has shallow roots. Aside from sweet alyssum, which likes a bit more moisture, the other plants are also extremely drought-tolerant. This is important since the small amount of soil will dry out quicker than if it were planted in traditional containers.