We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. If you don’t have space for a traditional bird bath, you can easily turn an old jar into a handy DIY waterer. This space-saving solution is perfect for providing birds with a place to drink and bathe without taking up too much room. All you need are some basic supplies like a Mason jar, lid, and a pie plate. Birds need access to water for hydration and cleanliness. They can find it in ponds, puddles, and streams, but a dedicated waterer makes it easier and safer for them to get a drink. Some species, like songbirds, need to rehydrate more often than others since they lack sweat glands and lose water through breathing and droppings. Making a DIY bird waterer is super simple. Just drill some holes in the jar lid, attach it to a pie plate with waterproof glue, and hang it up. The water will slowly drip into the plate, giving thirsty birds a convenient spot to quench their thirst. You can even add a few rocks to the plate so bees can take a sip without getting submerged. It’s an easy way to turn your yard into a welcoming oasis for your feathered friends.
adamvallaster/Shutterstock
How to turn a jar into a space-saving bird waterer
Chiyaca/Shutterstock
To make your DIY bird waterer, start by cleaning out a Mason jar. Drill a few holes in the lid to let the water drip out. Then, add some waterproof glue to the pie plate and attach the lid to raise it slightly above the plate. Fill the jar with water, screw on the lid, and flip the whole thing upside down. Wrap some twine around the jar, leaving extra to create a loop for hanging. And there you go – an easy, space-saving solution to provide birds with a convenient watering spot.
When using this DIY waterer, keep it out of direct sunlight to prevent algae or bacteria growth. Position it near a bird feeder, in some shade, and away from bushes where predators could lurk. The Audubon Society recommends setting it 5-8 feet off the ground. If you’re using it on an apartment patio, try to place it under cover if possible. Just remember to refill the jar whenever it runs dry and give it a good cleaning with soap and water every couple weeks.
