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DIY BIRD BATH
fresh water for wildlife
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diy bird bath

Easy to make bird bath!


paint a dark, plastic tub a light color to help keep the water cool

Also see: Patio Lighting

Also see: Wood Flower Boxes


Help Wildlife In Hot Weather

bird bath We live in the desert Southwest, and the birds and other wildlife have been displaced from their habitat due to all of the building in the area. What used to be natural desert with riparian areas (natural water areas for wildlife) has been turned into developed areas of housing. During the hot, dry months water can be difficult to locate.


The Challenge

The birds loved the bird bath we had purchased, but it was small. The birds needed more space and more water.

My husband placed a large, black tub out for the birds. It was in the shade most of the day, in our garden. When the sun hit it, however, the black rubber would heat up and cause the water to get quite warm. He could not find a large tub in a light color; they all seemed to be black.

The plastic tub was nice, because it was easy to clean. Frequent cleaning and water exchange is necessary to prevent the tub from becoming unsanitary and a place for mosquito breeding.


Supplies


large clean a black rubber tub for a diy bird bathplastic tub

Rustoleum paint (for plastic)

colors used:
we chose a light tan for the outside of the tub, and white for the interior

scrub brushes (to clean the tub if not new)

gloves

eye protection (such as goggles for painting

painter cloth, tarp, or newspaper



Instructions


1. Wash the tub - let dry.


Rustoleum paint for plastic 2. Work in a dust-free or low dust area. Carefully read the instructions for painting - follow all instructions.


paint the plastic tub 3. Paint the exterior of the tub. My husband chose to work outside for better ventilation. He applied a coat, let it dry, then added more coats as necessary. Let dry.


paint interior of bird bath 4. Paint the interior of the tub.

The photo shows the tub with the first, light coating of paint.

Add an aerator for water circulation.


THE WATER STAYS MUCH COOLER


light interior of bird bath stays cool diy bird bath Even in full sun, the water stays much cooler! It is easy to clean and refill each day with fresh water. The "pond" blends in with the surroundings and the birds are very happy!


Related Project

Patio LightingPatio Lights

Light up your patio by stringing lights between decorative pots/posts and your house. Perfect for areas not covered with a roof.

How To String Patio Lights



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