Risk of Drowning Bird baths, especially ones with steep, slippery sides or deep water, can drown birds. Smaller birds may struggle to escape if they can't locate a foothold if the water is too deep.
Disease Spread Bird baths can develop germs, viruses, and parasites, spreading diseases to bird populations.
Uncleansed water sources can spread avian pox, salmonella, trichomoniasis, and West Nile virus. Bird baths should be cleaned regularly to avoid stagnant water and droppings.
Chemical Exposure Bird baths near pesticide, herbicide, or other chemical-treated regions risk water contamination, exposing birds to dangerous substances.
These substances can harm birds' reproductive systems and health immediately or over time. Bird baths must be away from treated areas and discharge must not pollute the water.
Predation Risk Bird baths can attract predators and capture birds. Since birds are drawn to water, cats, hawks, and other predators may wait around bird baths to prey on them.
This risk can be lessened by placing bird baths in open locations away from predator hiding spots, but not eliminated.
Influence on Migration Artificial water supplies like bird baths may affect bird migration. By providing steady water, birds may delay migration, making it harder to obtain food and habitats when seasons change.
This disturbance of natural behaviors emphasizes the need to carefully assess bird baths' effects on local bird populations.