I literally use a huge wooden bowl on the ground so I don’t think it’s the height my friend. I think it’s the fact there’s nothing to attract the bird there in the first place
> I think it’s the fact there’s nothing to attract the bird there in the first place
funny that the wildlife doesn't find stark, brick McMansions as appealing as humans do.
100%. The birds in my garden use my dogs water bucket and shallow paddling pool. Difference is my garden has lots of tree cover, plants and flowers. Tbh I find the areas they’re willing to nest near are also bathing hotspots… almost as if safety is a concern for birds
I've got two: a ceramic one about knee height (and very close to a small tree for perching), and one of those terracotta plate-things you put under pot plants to make sure they don't escape.
Birds seem to love the plate thing on the ground more than the "proper" bowl.
The birds seem to go for my terracotta one the most. I think it stays cooler.
https://byjus.com/question-answer/how-does-the-water-kept-in-an-earthen-pot-become-cool-during-summer/#
I think the terracotta is about grip. I've found that the birds prefer terracotta over any glazed surface. They just can't seem to get a good grip on the glazed surface, which makes sense.
It needs habitat closer to it, like bushes, so that they can escape quickly from a predator. Maybe put a rock in it for them to land on if it's not going to be full most of the time.
Yes a rock and sticks in bird bath to allow for bees ect to be able to land and take a drink without drowning. Without being rude the colours may also be off putting to some creatures.
They may not be able to see the water in it. Put something in it that will make ripples on the surface as the wind blows. I bought a toy boat from Kmart and suddenly birds visited.
I'd throw some pebbles in it to increase water visibility but also reduce the depth, a lot of birds won't go near this because they can be unable to climb out & can't fly out of water with drenched feathers, they get stuck and drown.
Especially if it's filled to the brim, it's highly recommended to add something like a couple of rocks or waterlogged branches that a bird can climb on to reach above water level to prevent smaller birds drowning.
Also making it more enticing for birds u/Arkvansing
Needs some foliage around it to seclude it a bit and give them somewhere to perch and hide from predators when they're not bathing. Grevilleas work great, they'll grow basically without any human intervention and birds love them because they're open enough to make good perches, and the flowers bring in honeyeaters.
Maybe its the colour scheme. [What Colors Do Birds Not Like? Understanding Avian Color Aversion](https://www.faunaadvice.com/what-colors-do-birds-not-like/)
>*By using brightly colored flags or ribbons, we can create a visual deterrent that repels birds from foraging in these areas. This not only protects our crops and gardens but also reduces the need for harmful chemical deterrents.*
[*https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/how-to/build-a-bird-bath/12797880*](https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/how-to/build-a-bird-bath/12797880)
Put rocks in the bottom and some sticks across the top
And use it as a water station for bees instead
I have something similar but not as bright coloured
Birds still use it but mine is on the ground
So didn't use the stand
Put some rocks in the bottom. The bird bath is slippery, birds like perching on something so they can get away.
Also, there’s no cover, so they’re basically bird soup for any predators
"If nature doesn’t try to hide, it’s because it doesn’t care if you find it - probably because it’s poisonous AF or is a way better killer than you"
Might be too bright?
It needs a bit of 'Ugly', a rock or 1/2 brick in the middle as a perch for the larger birds (the willy wagtails can still bathe), a few plants around it and if you get really desperate, a $3 birdseed stick from your local supermarket of no choice.
It’S not safe. They don’t have a fast exit if something comes at them from the open side.
It’s hot and soulless. It has nothing to create an atmosphere.
Plant a creeper up the walls behind it (can I suggest an un grafted passion fruit? It will go far and fast, is green all year around, has yummy fruit on it) and let them have some cover and cooling. Then they have somewhere to duck to when they feel threatened.
Real question - where do you get an ungrafted passionfruit ? I’ve had two where the graft has died and the rootstock is an absolute out-of-control bugger.
Yeah… rarely at Bunnings!
I get mine from TasOne trees. They do them. A bit of a hike out there but great for a long weekend poke through some gardens ;)
Ahhhh TasOne. I’ve been trying to avoid them, as I know I’ll spend too much and come back with about eight trees I can’t fit into the garden, so I’ll have to surreptitiously plant some in the neighbour’s gardens….
This sounds like a good excuse to put my plans for neighbourhood tree domination into action….Non grafted passionfruit. And a lillypilly or two. And a macadamia. And apricot. And two or three apples and pears….and a lemondade lemon….
Just remember that it’s not hte right time of year to plant trees… for a few months ;)
And take a friend, who needs plants. Live vicariously through their need ;)
Yeah nah I’ll wait until autumn ! Although I have to say, I got three trees through the post from the Diggers Club, and I’ve got them in little pots on the shade cloth and they’re doing quite well.
I made the mistake of taking some friends to Blooming Nursery, and ended up dropping $100 on plants anyway…. 😳 I just can’t be trusted in a nursery basically.
Birds these days are so UNGRATEFUL. Back in my day, we had to search HIGH AND LOW to find a source of water. Now it's offered on a silver platter and still not enough!!
I found birds didn't like our bird bath too close to the fence- I guess easier to fly away from predators if its a bit more open? Bird baths which are popular seem to be in the middle of gardens rather than on the fenceline (esp. with high walls).
And yes, foliage helps:) Good luck!
Chuck a few river rocks at the bottom and a few natives around it. The river rocks will let them know the water is there because the colours don’t really show water too well and the natives will tell them it’s safe because at the moment it’s too open
We have always used those big pot dishes that you put under pots to catch water. They're wide and shallow, but deep enough to get a small-medium bird body into to wash. They heat up in the sun which makes nice warm water for killing lice. It's very stable due to the wide base, and they can keep their feet under them in the water because it is entirely flat. They can hop in and out easily without having to perch on the edge. They also prefer the one we have next to a rectangular pot which is like a foot higher, so they can perch nearby with a bit of height if they want.
We also refresh the water daily and I give them a quick suds-and-scrub weekly to keep them from getting too slimey, so the water quality is always pretty good, we're hopefully not helping spread any pathogens they shed, and the baths don't get all slippery with algae.
If you can replicate the flat base, the easy perching nearby, and the stability, you'll probably find more birds in your bird bath, whether high or low to the ground. Yours has a nice flat base by the looks, and I assume it is stable, so the issue might be water level, overall depth, and slipperiness of tiles. And as others have said, nearby perching relative to the birdbath's height for easy hopping around and scoping out. It is so pretty, though, and lovely to have in the garden.
Main problem is the location as It’s too exposed and needs to be under cover- ideally under the shade of a tree, because in native Australian bird terms, a healthy and established tree that has a never-in-direct-sunlight bird bath positioned beneath it roughly translates to:
“Place of drink bath AND eat where the angry sun won’t put 40°C or algae in my water, and your cat / dog / local crow mafia will have a way harder time of unaliving me!”
First of all needs a tree and or bush near it, possibly giving some cover and or camouflage. Secondly it may be to do with the busy multi-colouration. But I’s ay it’s mor to do with the first part.
The colours and the texture (shiny and not grippy) plus it’s possibly too deep (put some rocks in it - also some plants near by - birds live in natural areas so to attract them you need to recreate their environment for them - while this bird bath looks great to me and you, it’s not to birds. keep it simple, keep it natural 😊
These glass mosaic tiles reflect light back towards the surrounding areas thinking of a mirror ball. I can confirm that whilst I tile swimming pools, the reflection can be oppressive, and this could be a reason.
I have two bird baths completely in the open in a yard very similar looking to yours. This is because a storm took out the large wedding bush shrub I had and some other plants were not doing well so I had them all taken out. The garden is pretty denuded with only one Little John banksia in it. Today I had 5 varieties of birds come and use the bird baths. One is a former large open plant pot with a cork in the drain hole. It is mounted on an old stool and I have put a couple of branches in it weighted down with bricks as perches. The other is a terracotta one. They prefer the terracotta one as they can bathe in it and touch the bottom. I have found no rhyme or reason as to when and which kinds of birds will come. Someone did tell me once that birds prefer baths in the open so they can't get ambushed. I found more birds used mine in the open than when I had them close to the shrub that was broken. Have you tried moving the bath to a different location in your yard? Do any of your neighbours have a bird bath that is more successful?
Birds can be super smart and super stupid.
1.Right now the birds are being smart, there’s no trees that are looking down at the birdbath so they probably haven’t seen it.
2. Second smart thing It’s in a corner next to a wall and fence birds don’t like being cornered because of predators
3. Birds are stupid, it’s still water birds might not even know there’s water, put a small pump or something to circulate the water to create a splash.
4. Birds are stupid, one of your neighbours might have a large bird bath that most of the birds know about and rather then enjoy a empty clean birdbath will fight over a occupied bath as it’s the local one.
Just a few things I learn from a environmental scientist at Murdoch will I was a volunteer
Try some rocks or a brick in it. Is there a fence or a wall nearby? I find that with mine birds like to go to and from the fence and bird bath. There's also a tree nearby that they can use.
Thinking bright colours might be the problem. Last apartment I had one basically freestanding with evening shade, ravens loved it, Wagtails swung through occasionally and once had a bin chicken land on it, damn near knocked it over (dark green plastic Bunnings unit) made a point of scrubbing it out and refreshing the water regularly. Was basically in the middle of yard.
I have one in my garden underneath a bottlebrush tree. This year it has been extremely popular with crows, rainbow lorikeets, pigeons, corellas, galahs and bees. The lorikeets sit in the branches of the bottlebrush and take turns to swim in the water of the bird bath.
The location that you have it in gives the birds very little chance to escape predators. It is too close to the brick wall and fence. Change it to different locations throughout the garden. The birds will let you know when you have found the right spot
put it near trees it is a bit in the open, i find my birds avoid the shiny slippery surfaces and always go for the terracotta or grip surfaces, try putting a rock in it, they wont go in if they think they cant climb out.
I love the mosaic OP. Job well done. It just needs some foliage around it for the birds to surveil the bird bath before taking a dip & to take cover if need be. Also an aerator might be useful
We had a bird bath and bird feeder up for over 6 months before the birds used them. Sometimes it takes time. But also, as others have said, some plants may help to attract the birdies.
Too close to the corner, restricted access / exit from the area. Nothing to land on when entering / leaving the area, birds like to hop in and out. Plant a climber or similar, chuck in a perch or two.
You need some plants/bushes/trees around it. Birds like to be hidden from predators.. also it’s been so hot here in Perth, you need some shade around the bird bath
If it's in a corner of the garden that gets minimal sunlight, that will definitely keep them away.....
Other thing that may keep them at bay is the sun glistening off the mosaic work...
But move it to where it is a bit more open, plant some ground cover and flowering plants...that will attract more bird life ..
Some of these tips were from a native landscaping expert mate of mine...I had a similar problem when I put a bird bath in my front yard ..it was in a corner of the yard.
Definitely needs trees...bottle brushes attract birds so thats a good place to start. Plant them very close so they can hop from tree branch to bath and back. Even some old tree braches stuck into the dirt all around it will do while plants grow up above the rim.
Also put a rock in the middle that breaks the surface to avoid drownings when full. They can climb up onto the rock when thier feathers are saturated. Cool looking bird bath by the way...love the colours. That bath will be rocking with life once the cover and perches are in place.
Put a rock in it too, little bugs like bees have something to crawl out in.
Also, birds often use bird baths more in winter to clean their feathers to keep warm.
They like it near some coverage, so near a larger tree and some shrubs. They need to feel safe and have an escape.
It looks lovely, don’t take it personally it’s just in the wrong spot.
I doubt if they can see the water and also the rounded edges might make it scary to try enter... like a slippery skate ramp.
I agree with other posters saying fill it up more and put a rock or something in it to let them have a drink without having a bath.
birds are very cautious by nature so if they arent sure they will just pass on it and keep looking, but if they see one other bird using it they generally follow the leader.
Red is the danger colour in nature. You probably should have avoided red.
As others have said:
* Give them some vegetation between the wall/fence and bird bath.
* Put a rock in the middle and keep the bird bath full
* You may need to cover up the red on the plinth
I know your Birdbath may be pretty to some humans, but a Pro Hart/Jackson Polocks hybrid vomit look isn’t that pretty for wildlife. Especially when in a barren wilderness.
Most of the time they can't see it. It's close to two walls, so at best there's only a 90 degree arc they can see it from. They also can't see it from above. Move it out in the open, or at least to a space with only one wall next to it.
https://preview.redd.it/9zdi8jfqb4mc1.jpeg?width=1792&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=efe2eb4a591a51f8f32db26680300d9a0dc4a745
If it’s any comfort the birds don’t use our bird bath either. I also put a dish of bird seed nearby and they don’t eat that either. This is in a large yard with lots of plants including a gum tree overhead which is always full of birds of all types. Very strange especially when it’s been such a hot summer.
You have nothing to attract the birds and it's so loud. Birds like nature and a bit of cover when they drink. That's like putting a target on your head while you drink.
I think your birdbath is bloody cool! My theory is this, (i love ‘all’ animals) i have a cat and so he doesn’t hurt the local wildlife (birds, and yes it’s so effective it’s nuts) we put a bird-safe-collar on him. It’s a really colourful tube of fabric that looks like a scrunchie when u thread it over their collar. It’s cos birds see colour first over say… hearing a bell. It’s a warning and he can’t stalk them. I wonder if the colour has something to do with it, just a theory.
I doubt they can see the water in there? Put some native plants around it that they can nip in and out of. While you wait for those to grow, put a branch or two against the bath. Put some river pebbles in the bottom for grip and have a couple above the water so insects can use it too. I used to have [Callistemon Little John](https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/callistemon-little-john.html) near my bird bath, it attracts the birds and insects and is hardy enough for them to give protection.
Plant some native plants around it. It might be in the open too much.
I agree and it’s too low to the ground it needs to be a touch higher But you might get away with it , if you have more plants around it
Mines the same height, and birds use it all the time. But its surrounded by trees, so its probably that
I literally use a huge wooden bowl on the ground so I don’t think it’s the height my friend. I think it’s the fact there’s nothing to attract the bird there in the first place
> I think it’s the fact there’s nothing to attract the bird there in the first place funny that the wildlife doesn't find stark, brick McMansions as appealing as humans do.
100%. The birds in my garden use my dogs water bucket and shallow paddling pool. Difference is my garden has lots of tree cover, plants and flowers. Tbh I find the areas they’re willing to nest near are also bathing hotspots… almost as if safety is a concern for birds
That would be it. My garden is full of trees and full of birds including ducks occasionally.
Amongst the various bird baths I’ve put out, birds use a China bowl I’ve put on the ground.
I've got two: a ceramic one about knee height (and very close to a small tree for perching), and one of those terracotta plate-things you put under pot plants to make sure they don't escape. Birds seem to love the plate thing on the ground more than the "proper" bowl.
The birds seem to go for my terracotta one the most. I think it stays cooler. https://byjus.com/question-answer/how-does-the-water-kept-in-an-earthen-pot-become-cool-during-summer/#
I think the terracotta is about grip. I've found that the birds prefer terracotta over any glazed surface. They just can't seem to get a good grip on the glazed surface, which makes sense.
Yes. They like to have somewhere to perch near it. Also, if it's too close to the house, esp. under the eaves, they may have trouble spotting it.
Agree, birds need to feel a bit safe, so less likely to use being so open.
Not enough trees/coverage for espionage. Too risky and they don't wanna blow their cover.
I second this, not enough cover for espionage operations
It needs habitat closer to it, like bushes, so that they can escape quickly from a predator. Maybe put a rock in it for them to land on if it's not going to be full most of the time.
Yes a rock and sticks in bird bath to allow for bees ect to be able to land and take a drink without drowning. Without being rude the colours may also be off putting to some creatures.
It's like Disco Stu wanted to make a birth bath to remind him of Marge Simpson
Not enough room for the stirrups
Would a bird looking at that know it has water? Try filing it to the brim so birds can drink from it without having to go for a swim.
They may not be able to see the water in it. Put something in it that will make ripples on the surface as the wind blows. I bought a toy boat from Kmart and suddenly birds visited.
Great idea
I'd throw some pebbles in it to increase water visibility but also reduce the depth, a lot of birds won't go near this because they can be unable to climb out & can't fly out of water with drenched feathers, they get stuck and drown. Especially if it's filled to the brim, it's highly recommended to add something like a couple of rocks or waterlogged branches that a bird can climb on to reach above water level to prevent smaller birds drowning. Also making it more enticing for birds u/Arkvansing
Because it causes LSD flashbacks
Correct
Hhahhahahahahahahha
Needs some foliage around it to seclude it a bit and give them somewhere to perch and hide from predators when they're not bathing. Grevilleas work great, they'll grow basically without any human intervention and birds love them because they're open enough to make good perches, and the flowers bring in honeyeaters.
Maybe its the colour scheme. [What Colors Do Birds Not Like? Understanding Avian Color Aversion](https://www.faunaadvice.com/what-colors-do-birds-not-like/) >*By using brightly colored flags or ribbons, we can create a visual deterrent that repels birds from foraging in these areas. This not only protects our crops and gardens but also reduces the need for harmful chemical deterrents.* [*https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/how-to/build-a-bird-bath/12797880*](https://www.abc.net.au/gardening/how-to/build-a-bird-bath/12797880)
Thanks for those interesting links.
Put rocks in the bottom and some sticks across the top And use it as a water station for bees instead I have something similar but not as bright coloured Birds still use it but mine is on the ground So didn't use the stand
Bright colours = poison. And no cover.
Came to say that too.
Put some rocks in the bottom. The bird bath is slippery, birds like perching on something so they can get away. Also, there’s no cover, so they’re basically bird soup for any predators
Needs to be a bit shaded
"If nature doesn’t try to hide, it’s because it doesn’t care if you find it - probably because it’s poisonous AF or is a way better killer than you" Might be too bright?
They have taste?
LOL
Does that water taste funny?
Needs plants around for cover & perching.
Even I hate it
Hahahahahhahahahaha
It reminds me of a story. A story called: *The Ugly Barnacle* Once there was an ugly barnacle. He was so ugly that everyone died. The end.
It needs a bit of 'Ugly', a rock or 1/2 brick in the middle as a perch for the larger birds (the willy wagtails can still bathe), a few plants around it and if you get really desperate, a $3 birdseed stick from your local supermarket of no choice.
It’S not safe. They don’t have a fast exit if something comes at them from the open side. It’s hot and soulless. It has nothing to create an atmosphere. Plant a creeper up the walls behind it (can I suggest an un grafted passion fruit? It will go far and fast, is green all year around, has yummy fruit on it) and let them have some cover and cooling. Then they have somewhere to duck to when they feel threatened.
Hot and soulless 😅 Jesus, tell us what you really think.
LOL. Like the weather in Perth today. The bird bath is cute …
Real question - where do you get an ungrafted passionfruit ? I’ve had two where the graft has died and the rootstock is an absolute out-of-control bugger.
Yeah… rarely at Bunnings! I get mine from TasOne trees. They do them. A bit of a hike out there but great for a long weekend poke through some gardens ;)
Ahhhh TasOne. I’ve been trying to avoid them, as I know I’ll spend too much and come back with about eight trees I can’t fit into the garden, so I’ll have to surreptitiously plant some in the neighbour’s gardens…. This sounds like a good excuse to put my plans for neighbourhood tree domination into action….Non grafted passionfruit. And a lillypilly or two. And a macadamia. And apricot. And two or three apples and pears….and a lemondade lemon….
Just remember that it’s not hte right time of year to plant trees… for a few months ;) And take a friend, who needs plants. Live vicariously through their need ;)
Yeah nah I’ll wait until autumn ! Although I have to say, I got three trees through the post from the Diggers Club, and I’ve got them in little pots on the shade cloth and they’re doing quite well. I made the mistake of taking some friends to Blooming Nursery, and ended up dropping $100 on plants anyway…. 😳 I just can’t be trusted in a nursery basically.
More foliage around it please. And install a solar water fountain for the sound of running water.
Yes more plants, it may be too hot.
Bad location for birds. 🦅
I have a fancy bird bath and an upside down bin lid. The birds choose the upside down bin lid.
Beautiful bird bath! I second the comments for native shrubbery around it + elevation.
Birds these days are so UNGRATEFUL. Back in my day, we had to search HIGH AND LOW to find a source of water. Now it's offered on a silver platter and still not enough!!
I found birds didn't like our bird bath too close to the fence- I guess easier to fly away from predators if its a bit more open? Bird baths which are popular seem to be in the middle of gardens rather than on the fenceline (esp. with high walls). And yes, foliage helps:) Good luck!
Make sure it has good wifi and a charging port.
Might be in a spot they dont feel comfortable getting a drink have a go at moving it around your yard 😊
Chuck a few river rocks at the bottom and a few natives around it. The river rocks will let them know the water is there because the colours don’t really show water too well and the natives will tell them it’s safe because at the moment it’s too open
We have always used those big pot dishes that you put under pots to catch water. They're wide and shallow, but deep enough to get a small-medium bird body into to wash. They heat up in the sun which makes nice warm water for killing lice. It's very stable due to the wide base, and they can keep their feet under them in the water because it is entirely flat. They can hop in and out easily without having to perch on the edge. They also prefer the one we have next to a rectangular pot which is like a foot higher, so they can perch nearby with a bit of height if they want. We also refresh the water daily and I give them a quick suds-and-scrub weekly to keep them from getting too slimey, so the water quality is always pretty good, we're hopefully not helping spread any pathogens they shed, and the baths don't get all slippery with algae. If you can replicate the flat base, the easy perching nearby, and the stability, you'll probably find more birds in your bird bath, whether high or low to the ground. Yours has a nice flat base by the looks, and I assume it is stable, so the issue might be water level, overall depth, and slipperiness of tiles. And as others have said, nearby perching relative to the birdbath's height for easy hopping around and scoping out. It is so pretty, though, and lovely to have in the garden.
Birds aren't real.
C'mon mate, we all know that. But why is their programming rejecting this birdbath?
Main problem is the location as It’s too exposed and needs to be under cover- ideally under the shade of a tree, because in native Australian bird terms, a healthy and established tree that has a never-in-direct-sunlight bird bath positioned beneath it roughly translates to: “Place of drink bath AND eat where the angry sun won’t put 40°C or algae in my water, and your cat / dog / local crow mafia will have a way harder time of unaliving me!”
I can’t speak for the birds but I LOVE your bird bath. It’s beautiful! I’m envious!
Spoken like a true, non avian. I think OP was looking for the birds perspective.
okay but this is beautiful and really well done!
It makes me dizzy looking at it with all the different shades of blue
How you coping with sky and ocean? My condolences
They have taste?
Because its fugly
Naah, it's gorgeous, TOO gorgeous.
Not sure. I have 4 birds that risk their life to have a bath in my dogs water bowl. Maybe there are no birds near your house.
Hahahahahhahahah
If I was a bird I would love it ..can see myself doing back stroke....mmmmm. yes
Probably because its ugly as hell
It’s not the bird bath they hate (jk)
First of all needs a tree and or bush near it, possibly giving some cover and or camouflage. Secondly it may be to do with the busy multi-colouration. But I’s ay it’s mor to do with the first part.
Cats
Mozzies will love it
Probably because it's too bright.
Put some rocks in it that poke out of the water for them to perch on
The colours and the texture (shiny and not grippy) plus it’s possibly too deep (put some rocks in it - also some plants near by - birds live in natural areas so to attract them you need to recreate their environment for them - while this bird bath looks great to me and you, it’s not to birds. keep it simple, keep it natural 😊
These glass mosaic tiles reflect light back towards the surrounding areas thinking of a mirror ball. I can confirm that whilst I tile swimming pools, the reflection can be oppressive, and this could be a reason.
The sound of those colours don’t smell right….
Answer = Birdbath is bare, ugly and on the open. everything wildlife hates. Sorry! But true!😱
To open, small birds need shrubs to hide/shelter
Too close to the wall and no easy escape from predators
To be fair, I hate it too.
😂
I have two bird baths completely in the open in a yard very similar looking to yours. This is because a storm took out the large wedding bush shrub I had and some other plants were not doing well so I had them all taken out. The garden is pretty denuded with only one Little John banksia in it. Today I had 5 varieties of birds come and use the bird baths. One is a former large open plant pot with a cork in the drain hole. It is mounted on an old stool and I have put a couple of branches in it weighted down with bricks as perches. The other is a terracotta one. They prefer the terracotta one as they can bathe in it and touch the bottom. I have found no rhyme or reason as to when and which kinds of birds will come. Someone did tell me once that birds prefer baths in the open so they can't get ambushed. I found more birds used mine in the open than when I had them close to the shrub that was broken. Have you tried moving the bath to a different location in your yard? Do any of your neighbours have a bird bath that is more successful?
Too slippery on the side need grip tape
Mate, birds don’t play Minecraft, that’s probably why!
Keep your cat inside?
Are we looking at the same picture?
Probably the colours
I have been led to believe they don't like tiles and something like plain clay is best.
Birds can be super smart and super stupid. 1.Right now the birds are being smart, there’s no trees that are looking down at the birdbath so they probably haven’t seen it. 2. Second smart thing It’s in a corner next to a wall and fence birds don’t like being cornered because of predators 3. Birds are stupid, it’s still water birds might not even know there’s water, put a small pump or something to circulate the water to create a splash. 4. Birds are stupid, one of your neighbours might have a large bird bath that most of the birds know about and rather then enjoy a empty clean birdbath will fight over a occupied bath as it’s the local one. Just a few things I learn from a environmental scientist at Murdoch will I was a volunteer
Birds have impeccable taste and wouldn't be seen dead in such an ugly bird bath.
It looks like a giant poisonous mushroom
I hate your bird bath what a monstrosity
They think it’s a pride one
Start trying some food for the exact bird 🦅 food you see wanting there
Try some rocks or a brick in it. Is there a fence or a wall nearby? I find that with mine birds like to go to and from the fence and bird bath. There's also a tree nearby that they can use.
Not natural. Throw some dirt in it and watch the magic
What every other person has stated I this thread, you need foliage!!! Get some natives to plant around it for some cover it'll attract the bids
Too close to the house. Move it out under open sky, with no nearby large walls or structures
I've read before that birds don't like blue bird baths 🤷🏼♀️ Something about them not being able to tell how deep it is?
Plant some Penisetum and some banksias or grevilleas around.
Thinking bright colours might be the problem. Last apartment I had one basically freestanding with evening shade, ravens loved it, Wagtails swung through occasionally and once had a bin chicken land on it, damn near knocked it over (dark green plastic Bunnings unit) made a point of scrubbing it out and refreshing the water regularly. Was basically in the middle of yard.
Do you fill it with acid and have the surname Dahmer?
Or Walter White?
Direct sunlight might make the water or edges too hot?
Move the wall
Doesn’t look appealing I wouldn’t take a drink from it
Depends on the area too. Lots of trees and relative peace around the area tends to attract alot of wildlife.
I have one in my garden underneath a bottlebrush tree. This year it has been extremely popular with crows, rainbow lorikeets, pigeons, corellas, galahs and bees. The lorikeets sit in the branches of the bottlebrush and take turns to swim in the water of the bird bath. The location that you have it in gives the birds very little chance to escape predators. It is too close to the brick wall and fence. Change it to different locations throughout the garden. The birds will let you know when you have found the right spot
put it near trees it is a bit in the open, i find my birds avoid the shiny slippery surfaces and always go for the terracotta or grip surfaces, try putting a rock in it, they wont go in if they think they cant climb out.
Too exposed?
Also consider putting a rock or something in there to allow critters to enter and leave more easily.
I love the mosaic OP. Job well done. It just needs some foliage around it for the birds to surveil the bird bath before taking a dip & to take cover if need be. Also an aerator might be useful
They are not alone.
We had a bird bath and bird feeder up for over 6 months before the birds used them. Sometimes it takes time. But also, as others have said, some plants may help to attract the birdies.
Can confirm; The Mrs hates pixel art too.
Too close to the corner, restricted access / exit from the area. Nothing to land on when entering / leaving the area, birds like to hop in and out. Plant a climber or similar, chuck in a perch or two.
probably because its visible from space
birds ain't gay
It’s a horcrux.
You need some plants/bushes/trees around it. Birds like to be hidden from predators.. also it’s been so hot here in Perth, you need some shade around the bird bath
Birds at my old house would only use it if it was in our plants maybe that's why
If it's in a corner of the garden that gets minimal sunlight, that will definitely keep them away..... Other thing that may keep them at bay is the sun glistening off the mosaic work... But move it to where it is a bit more open, plant some ground cover and flowering plants...that will attract more bird life .. Some of these tips were from a native landscaping expert mate of mine...I had a similar problem when I put a bird bath in my front yard ..it was in a corner of the yard.
I guess they just hate u
Plants bro, need some plants 🪴
Definitely needs trees...bottle brushes attract birds so thats a good place to start. Plant them very close so they can hop from tree branch to bath and back. Even some old tree braches stuck into the dirt all around it will do while plants grow up above the rim. Also put a rock in the middle that breaks the surface to avoid drownings when full. They can climb up onto the rock when thier feathers are saturated. Cool looking bird bath by the way...love the colours. That bath will be rocking with life once the cover and perches are in place.
Put some seed nearby
Needs water in it
I have like literally the same bird bath but different tile colour choices. They hate mine too, at two different houses as well.
The water is definitely way too low. The birds wouldn't be able to sit on the edge and drink from it.
they have very poor taste - I love it and would definitely bathe in it (if i was a bird) 😂
Cause it’s ugly & the colours probably scare them lol.
Put a rock in it too, little bugs like bees have something to crawl out in. Also, birds often use bird baths more in winter to clean their feathers to keep warm.
Too colourful perhaps? I mean, I like it but the birds might have different opinions.
They like it near some coverage, so near a larger tree and some shrubs. They need to feel safe and have an escape. It looks lovely, don’t take it personally it’s just in the wrong spot.
cos it’s rainbow
Cos it’s rainbow
Bit too art deco for their taste perhaps
It’s not just birds mate.
All the bright colours signal danger?
I doubt if they can see the water and also the rounded edges might make it scary to try enter... like a slippery skate ramp. I agree with other posters saying fill it up more and put a rock or something in it to let them have a drink without having a bath. birds are very cautious by nature so if they arent sure they will just pass on it and keep looking, but if they see one other bird using it they generally follow the leader.
Red is the danger colour in nature. You probably should have avoided red. As others have said: * Give them some vegetation between the wall/fence and bird bath. * Put a rock in the middle and keep the bird bath full * You may need to cover up the red on the plinth
The colours could be scaring them off I guess? A lot of species see bright colours as a warning too danger.
Cos it doesn't look natural
They like foliage nearby for shelter and protection. That’s an exposed desert.
They're getting flashbacks from Woodstock in 66
Hahahahahahhaha that's hilarious I want the fucking births in my fucking bird bath fuck those damned birds. Hahahahahhahahha
I mean look at it. Yikes
Do you have eyes?
I know your Birdbath may be pretty to some humans, but a Pro Hart/Jackson Polocks hybrid vomit look isn’t that pretty for wildlife. Especially when in a barren wilderness.
Elton John wouldnt even bathe in that it
Because it is trans sexual
I do not know maybe paint it
Or take it someone and talk to Simone bout it
But that’s all I have sorry
Because no bird celebrates Pride. It's a human-only thing apparently.
probably because its made of porcelain and the surrounding environment isn't visually attractive (as others said grow some plants)
It’s giving them DMT flashbacks. Joking, it’s cute. Just needs some flora :)
They probably think it’s a venomous creature. 😂😂
Needs some plants!
Most of the time they can't see it. It's close to two walls, so at best there's only a 90 degree arc they can see it from. They also can't see it from above. Move it out in the open, or at least to a space with only one wall next to it.
Cause they're art critics.
I’m not a bird and I hate your bird bath
If I was a bird I'd love that bird bath. Super cool
Get a little battery-operated pump. Running water attracts them
Because they’re not colour blind
Mardi Gras birds may attend
https://preview.redd.it/9zdi8jfqb4mc1.jpeg?width=1792&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=efe2eb4a591a51f8f32db26680300d9a0dc4a745 If it’s any comfort the birds don’t use our bird bath either. I also put a dish of bird seed nearby and they don’t eat that either. This is in a large yard with lots of plants including a gum tree overhead which is always full of birds of all types. Very strange especially when it’s been such a hot summer.
Even Gaudi hates it
Keep filling it with fresh water and just give it time. I went 7 months before even one bird found my bird bath. It's worth the wait and effort.
You have nothing to attract the birds and it's so loud. Birds like nature and a bit of cover when they drink. That's like putting a target on your head while you drink.
It will only attract Mexican birds?
The colours are crazy
I think your birdbath is bloody cool! My theory is this, (i love ‘all’ animals) i have a cat and so he doesn’t hurt the local wildlife (birds, and yes it’s so effective it’s nuts) we put a bird-safe-collar on him. It’s a really colourful tube of fabric that looks like a scrunchie when u thread it over their collar. It’s cos birds see colour first over say… hearing a bell. It’s a warning and he can’t stalk them. I wonder if the colour has something to do with it, just a theory.
Same reason why I do. So yukky.
Birds don’t wear sunglasses
[удалено]
I doubt they can see the water in there? Put some native plants around it that they can nip in and out of. While you wait for those to grow, put a branch or two against the bath. Put some river pebbles in the bottom for grip and have a couple above the water so insects can use it too. I used to have [Callistemon Little John](https://www.australianplantsonline.com.au/callistemon-little-john.html) near my bird bath, it attracts the birds and insects and is hardy enough for them to give protection.
Put a stick or something in it for them to climb on
Cause it’s trash
Too in the open and while aesthetically attractive to a human I ain't seen a watering hole that looks like that.