Homemade Birdbath Dripper

Construction

• A homemade bird bath dripper is easy to make. Gather an old milk jug or a large, empty coffee can and wash it out with a mixture of vinegar and water. Secure the top of the jug or can with a tight-fitting lid. Tie heavy-duty twine or string around the vessel at at angle so that the container will tilt when hung. Hold the vessel up and punch a small hole into the bottom of it. Decorate the jug or can to your taste using nontoxic paints or materials. Be sure that all the materials used in decoration are safe for use around animals.

Hanging

• Once the dripper is decorated and has been allowed to dry, hang it over a backyard birdbath by using a wrought-iron or wire shepherd's hook. These can be purchased from a hardware store. Secure the dripper to the hook with additional twine. Fill the birdbath with clean water and watch as the water drips slowly from the dripper into the bird bath. Dripping water will create ripples in the surface of the bath and attract birds to the feature. Sit back and enjoy the view as birds come to play in the water and drink from the dripper.

Cleaning

• Change water frequently to help keep the water fresh and clean. Wash out the dripper vessel using a vinegar and water mixture on a regular basis. This will help prevent bacteria from growing inside the dripper. Use vinegar and water rather than a chemical-based cleaner to avoid water contamination.