Water is one of the most important necessities that birds need year-round. Cold weather in northern areas can bring an additional challenge to a bird's survival due to natural water sources being frozen. Providing and maintaining a bird bath with clean water is just one small favor you can offer.
Most people understand the importance of water for drinking but many do not realize just how important it is in bathing for birds. Because feathers are critical for flight and insulation, birds keep them well-maintained. A good part of a bird's day is spent just cleaning and grooming its feathers by bathing, scratching, and preening. The feathers covering the body give the bird a water resistant, aerodynamic shape for efficient flight. The feathers also provide insulation by trapping body heat close to the skin.
Water sources in winter are an easy way to attract a variety of birds, including the American Robin and Eastern Bluebird, that don’t normally visit feeders.
Falling temperatures are no reason to keep your birds from getting their fill of water. The Wild Birds Unlimited durable, plastic bird bath provides a reliable source of water when natural sources are frozen, even to temperatures below -20° F. Easily mounted to wood deck rails, this bird bath allows visitors to drink and bathe and keep their feathers clean.It features a built-in 150 watt, fully grounded heater that is thermostatically controlled to conserve energy. It also has a full 4 year warranty and it’s made in the U.S.A.