One of the most underrated ways to spruce up your garden is to invest in a bird bath. There are a myriad of choices out there on the market: stone bird baths, metal bird baths, or the ill advised plastic bird baths. Here are some tips to consider when you’re shopping around for a new bird bath:First, the bathing basin should be less than 3 inches deep — and you should fill it with only 2 inches of water. Most songbirds won’t bathe in water that’s any deeper than that.
Second, make sure the bottom of the bathing basin has a rough surface. Many birdbath bottoms are often too slick to provide secure footing for birds, especially when a coat of algae forms on submerged surfaces. If you can find only a smooth surface basin, rough it up with sandpaper or the claws of a hammer (for plastic basins only!) before filling it with water.
Third, make sure the basin fits securely on the pedestal and won’t be subject to tipping by thirsty dogs, raccoons, deer, or, in wilder reaches, bears. No one wants to pick up an overturned birdbath every morning, and few folks want to replace a broken basin every time in thirsty critter tries to scale the pedestal.
You can search for a one-piece birdbath, or you could use a waterproof adhesive to attach the basin to the pedestal. Also, weight the base or sink it in the ground to minimize tipping over.