Putting copper pennies in a bird bath serves several important purposes for backyard birders trying to attract more feathered friends to their space. The key reasons include deterring algae growth, repelling mosquitoes, and supplementing minerals for birds.
Deterring Algae
One of the primary reasons birding experts recommend putting copper pennies in a bird bath is to deter the growth of algae. Algae can quickly take over and create a green, slippery mess in bird baths that not only looks unsightly but can also make the bathing area unsafe and unappealing for visiting birds.
Copper has natural algaecidal properties, meaning it can kill and inhibit the growth of algae. As the pennies slowly corrode in the water, they leach trace amounts of copper that prevent algae from overpopulating the bird bath.
A few key tips for using pennies to control algae in a bird bath include:
- Use brand new, shiny pennies for maximum copper content.
- Add at least 5-10 pennies per gallon of bird bath capacity.
- Replace the pennies monthly for continued effectiveness.
- Scrub away any existing algae before adding pennies.
- Periodically clean the bath and replace water to remove copper oxidation.
The small amount of copper released from the pennies is safe for birds while being highly disruptive to algae growth. This creates an algae-free haven for local birds to bathe and drink.
Repelling Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes breed in and around bird baths, posing an annoying nuisance and potential health threat to both birds and humans. Copper can help repel mosquitoes and break their breeding cycles for reduced pest pressure.
Research shows that copper sulfate, which dissolves from the pennies, is highly toxic to mosquito larvae. When present in small quantities, it prevents mosquito eggs and larvae from fully developing.
In addition, pennies impart a protective barrier effect. Mosquitoes tend to avoid laying eggs in water sources where copper is present, seeking out less hostile breeding grounds. This one-two punch helps disrupt the mosquito lifecycle around bird baths.
Key tips for using pennies to repel mosquitoes include:
- Use at least 1 penny per pint of bird bath capacity.
- Add more pennies during peak mosquito season for maximum effect.
- Agitate the pennies weekly to maintain copper dispersion.
- Replace water frequently to prevent mosquito resistance.
A small amount of copper from pennies can go a long way in making a bird bath unappealing for mosquitoes while remaining safe for visiting birds and people.
Supplementing Minerals
In addition to deterring algae and mosquitoes, copper pennies in a bird bath help supplement essential minerals for bathing birds. Birds require trace amounts of copper and other minerals like zinc for proper nutrition and healthy feather maintenance.
As the pennies slowly corrode, they infuse the bath water with tiny amounts of these beneficial minerals. Birds then absorb the minerals through bathing and preening their feathers.
Key tips for supplementing minerals with pennies include:
- Use newer pennies to maximize mineral content.
- Add extra pennies during molting season when birds need more minerals.
- Spread pennies out evenly rather than clustering them together.
- Replace water frequently to cycle in fresh trace minerals.
The small dose of supplemental minerals helps attract more wild birds to the bath while supporting their health in the process.
Ideal Number of Pennies
When adding copper pennies to a bird bath, more is not necessarily better in terms of maximizing benefits without risks. Here are some general guidelines on how many pennies to use based on your bath’s capacity:
Bird Bath Capacity | Number of Pennies |
---|---|
1 pint | 1 penny |
1 quart | 4 pennies |
1 gallon | 10 pennies |
2 gallons | 20 pennies |
3 gallons | 30 pennies |
Aim for using around 1 penny per pint as a standard rule of thumb. For larger bird baths, adding 10-15 pennies per gallon of capacity will impart benefits without overdosing the water.
It’s better to start with fewer pennies and increase over time as needed. Monitor water quality and algae growth when first adding pennies to gauge effectiveness.
Penny Placement Tips
Proper placement of the pennies helps ensure the copper releases into the water correctly for maximum effectiveness:
- Scatter pennies over the entire bottom surface rather than clustering in one spot.
- Spread pennies out in a single layer, avoiding overlapping stacking.
- Add a few pennies directly under the water stream point to bolster algae prevention.
- Allow pennies to sit undisturbed for 1-2 weeks to stabilize copper levels before agitating.
- Once stabilized, lightly swirl or shake bath weekly to disperse copper.
Distributing the pennies evenly prevents concentrated copper zones while still infusing the entire water volume. Follow these placement tips for the most efficient copper dispersal.
Bird Bath Maintenance
Proper bird bath maintenance is key when using copper pennies to ensure safe water quality over time:
- Change water frequently – Drain and refill water at least once per week.
- Remove pennies monthly – Take pennies out monthly and replace with fresh ones.
- Clean bath thoroughly – Use a brush and non-toxic cleaner to scrub away residue.
- Monitor water appearance – Watch for signs of excess oxidation or algae.
- Avoid overcrowding – Limit pennies to recommended amounts per gallon.
With regular cleaning, water replacement, and penny replacement, the bath will maintain proper copper concentrations to safely repel algae, mosquitoes, and supplement minerals.
Using Other Metals
While copper is the most proven metal for bird bath benefits, certain other metals can also impart positive effects:
- Zinc – Supplements minerals and may deter algae.
- Silver – Has natural antibacterial properties to keep water clean.
- Steel – Adds iron trace minerals; may rust quickly.
However, research shows copper has the greatest efficacy and safety when used correctly. Other metals lack the extensive data proving they are safe and effective when added to bird baths.
Safety Tips
When using copper pennies in a bird bath, follow these tips to ensure safety:
- Use only U.S. pennies minted after 1982 since they contain 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper.
- Avoid older pennies with higher copper content up to 95%.
- Start with fewer pennies and increase slowly based on monitoring.
- Change water frequently, at least once per week.
- Remove oxidation residue buildup on pennies over time.
- Promptly remove pennies if any signs of dead algae, insects, or birds appear.
With careful copper dosage and bath maintenance, pennies can safely enhance backyard birding. Monitor conditions closely and adjust amounts as needed.
Conclusion
Placing copper pennies in bird baths is an easy, chemical-free way to reap multiple benefits in backyard birding. The pennies help deter algae overgrowth, repel mosquitoes, and supplement essential minerals for visiting birds. With proper dosage and maintenance, pennies can create a safe, healthy, and mineral-rich oasis for local birds to enjoy.
Remember to use new pennies in moderation, spread them evenly throughout the bath, replace them monthly, and change the water frequently. Take care to monitor the bath’s condition and make adjustments as needed to maintain safety. With the right approach, copper pennies offer an accessible and effective method to enhance backyard bird baths.