Gardeners with bird tables in their garden are being urged to stick a ping pong ball in the water this week.
Freezing, subzero conditions have blasted the UK this week and even in areas lucky enough to escape snow chaos, ice and frost have made life difficult not just for us but for the wildlife in our gardens too. And it’s going to stay cold this weekend and into next week, say forecasters.
Which is why anyone with a bird table should be popping a ping pong ball in the water. According to wildlife experts at Bird Spot, along with other experts, bird tables will not freeze over if you pop a ping pong ball in the water.
That’s because the gentle movement of the ball, slowly moving around in the breeze, keeps the water constantly slightly shifting and prevents it from freezing.
And though you might think this time of year comes with plenty of drinking and bathing water for birds as it’s always raining, when conditions are freezing cold it actually becomes difficult for birds to find fresh drinking water because it’s all stuck under the ice. That’s why it’s important to leave fresh drinking water out, and crucially, to stop it from freezing.
Bird Spot explains: “Providing fresh water in winter is just as important as offering food, as many natural water sources can freeze over, leaving birds without essential hydration.
“Birds rely on water not only for drinking but also for bathing, which might seem surprising during freezing weather. However, bathing is crucial for keeping their feathers in good condition, ensuring they stay insulated and waterproofed.
“If you notice birds splashing about in the water, there’s no need to worry as they won’t get too cold. Clean feathers are vital for their survival, especially in winter, as they help maintain body heat and keep them agile.
“To ensure water is always available, consider investing in a heated bird bath to prevent it from icing over. If that’s not an option, a simple trick is to place a ping-pong ball on the surface of the water. The gentle movement caused by the wind will keep the surface from freezing.
“By keeping a reliable supply of water, you’ll help birds thrive during the harsh winter months, giving them the resources they need to stay healthy and active.”
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