Old fashioned concrete bird bath fountains are a great way to attract birds to your backyard as many of them have become accustomed to seeking bird baths to get a drink of water and have a refreshing splash on a hot summer day.

The inviting sound of trickling water that is provided by a fountain design, lets birds know that the water is fresh and safe to drink.

Advantages of Bird Baths

Bird bath fountains are natural and will attract a wide variety of birds to your backyard - like bluebirds, warblers and bobwhites - all of which enjoy moving water. You'll love watching your backyard birds as they play, splash, bath and drink.

Bird baths also make great water accents for your garden, adding a decorative touch, but also the therapeutic and peaceful sound of running water.

Why a Fountain Style?

Birds instinctively listen for the sound of water, making a point of seeking out bubbling or running water. And while a standard bird bath will eventually attract regular visitors, a fountain-style bath will draw migrant birds that are simply passing through the area.

Depending on the season, your backyard will fill with robins and doves and waxwings as they pass through on their migratory paths. In short, the running water will actually attract the birds, rather than simply waiting for them to happen upon your yard attraction.

Maintain a Shallow Water Level

Most birds don't feel safe in anything but shallow water, so while you may be tempted to opt for a deep fountain, you should instead purchase a very low water level - "knee" level for the average bird.

Install a Bath Mat

Instead of wasting your money on a slick, glossy pottery fountain, choose bird bath fountains which have a rough surface that's easy to grip. Just like us, birds are wary when it comes to slippery surfaces around water. So, look for fountains coated with sandstone, concrete or other rough surfaces.

Stay Low to the Ground

Typically, most water sources aren't found floating in mid-air at waist-level. Most water is located at ground level, and that's where birds seek it out. So, instead of buying a pedestal style bird bath, opt for a fountain that's low to the ground.

Optimal Designs

The optimal design for bird bath fountains are double-tiered basins with a constantly flowing water source set low to the ground. The running fountain attracts birds,and the ground level is appealing. To make your bird visitors feel safe, camouflage the area with a few plants and natural elements.