A drinking bird, also known as a dipping bird, is a popular desk toy that has a characteristic bobbing motion. The bird is shaped with a curved tube going from its tail to its beak, allowing it to rock back and forth when placed in a glass of water. However, sometimes these drinking birds stop working properly and won’t bob anymore. There are a few possible reasons why your drinking bird isn’t working and some simple troubleshooting steps you can try to get it going again.
What is a drinking bird and how does it work?
A drinking bird works through the scientific principles of evaporation, gravity, buoyancy, and center of mass. The bird is made of two glass bulbs – one as the body and head and one as the tail – connected by a tube. The tube allows water to flow between the two bulbs.
When you place the bird next to a glass of water, the bottom bulb in the tail end becomes wet from the water. The water evaporates from the bulb, cooling the air inside it. This cooled air causes the bottom bulb to become more dense than the warmed air in the upper bulb in the bird’s body.
The unequal densities between the two bulbs cause the bird to become top-heavy and tip forward. As it tips, the beak tips into the glass allowing more water to run into the tail bulb. This adds weight and brings the bird back upright. The cycle repeats with evaporation continually cooling the bottom bulb and creating the oscillating motion.
Common reasons a drinking bird stops working
There are a few common issues that can cause a drinking bird to stop bobbing its head:
The wick has dried out
The tube connecting the two glass bulbs has a piece of string or fabric wick running through it. This wick helps carry water from the glass into the bottom bulb through capillary action. If it dries out, no water can travel up to the bottom bulb and the evaporation cycle stops.
There is sediment buildup in the tubes
Mineral deposits from tap water or corrosion inside the tubes can build up over time, blocking the water flow. No water can reach the bottom bulb if the tubes are clogged.
The bulbs lost their vacuum seal
The two glass bulbs must have nearly all air removed to function. This vacuum allows evaporation to lower the temperature and density inside the bottom bulb. If air leaks into the bulbs, temperatures will equalize and evaporation can’t cool the bottom bulb.
There are small air bubbles in the tubes
Sometimes tiny air bubbles can form and block the water flow in the tubes connecting the bulbs. The water can’t cycle properly if air bubbles occlude the tubes.
The bulb alignment is off
The balance between the two bulbs must be aligned properly for the bird to swing back and forth. If the top bulb shifts too far forward or back, it can prevent the rocking motion.
Troubleshooting steps
Here are some steps to try to troubleshoot and fix a drinking bird that is no longer working:
Check the wick
Look inside the curved tube running between the two bulbs. You should see a thin white string or fabric wick hanging in the tube. If the wick looks dried out or shrunken, the capillary action can no longer draw water up. Soak the wick in water until saturated, then reinstall it in the tube. This should allow water to flow again.
Flush sediment from the tubes
Mix a solution of one part vinegar to two parts water. Pour it into the tail bulb and let it run through the tubes. This mild acidic solution will dissolve any built-up mineral deposits. Flush several times until water flows freely. Distilled white vinegar works best for sediment removal.
Refurbish the vacuum seal
A drinking bird with compromised vacuum seals can sometimes be fixed. Take the bird apart by twisting the two bulbs in opposite directions to detach them at the main tube. Carefully fire the separated bulbs with a propane torch for 2-3 minutes to boil away any internal moisture. Assembling while still hot can reseal the vacuum. Be very careful handling recently torched glass.
Remove air bubbles
Try flicking or tapping the tubes to dislodge any stuck air bubbles. Holding the bird upright and shaking side to side can also let bubbles float free. Changing the water level and angle of the bird against the glass can help release trapped bubbles.
Realign the balance
Gently bend the metal legs to tweak the balance and pitch of the bird. The top bulb should be tilted slightly forward when in the resting position to allow it to dip properly. Adjust in small increments until the desired rocking motion returns.
When to replace a drinking bird
If you have tried all of these troubleshooting steps and the drinking bird still won’t work, it may need to be replaced. Here are some signs that indicate it is time to get a new drinking bird:
Bulbs remain cloudy after cleaning
Bulbs that remain foggy or cloudy after flushing indicate interior corrosion that can’t be reversed. Time for a new drinking bird.
Tubes are crimped or crushed
Damaged or pinched tubes prevent water flow even if cleared of sediment. These birds cannot be repaired.
Vacuum seal cannot be reestablished
If firing and reassembly doesn’t recreate the vacuum, the hardware is no longer functional. Trying to seal a compromised bulb is risky.
Legs are bent or broken
Leg damage affects balance. Proper pitch and weight distribution is crucial, so bent or broken legs require a new drinking bird.
Beak or body cracks are present
Any external cracks or damage to the bulbs make the bird unsuitable and unsafe for use. Do not attempt repairs.
Getting a replacement drinking bird
Authentic drinking birds can still be purchased from novelty and science toy retailers. Here are some places to find replacement drinking birds:
Science supply stores
Stores marketing science education supplies like microscopes often carry drinking birds. These are great places to locate an original model.
Online marketplaces
Sites like Amazon and eBay have a wide selection of drinking birds for sale from various sellers at different price points.
Flea markets and antique shops
Vintage drinking birds can sometimes be found at antique malls, flea markets, or estate sales. These may need refurbishment but add retro charm.
Direct distributors
Some educational supply companies sell new drinking birds in bulk for classroom purposes. These often provide volume discounts.
Key considerations when selecting a replacement
When choosing a new drinking bird, keep these aspects in mind:
Glass vs. plastic construction
Glass drinking birds are more classic while plastic is safer for kids. Consider the intended user and environment.
Size
Standard drinking birds stand about 6 inches tall. Larger jumbo versions are available along with mini compact models.
Base or mounting
Some drinking birds have a weighted base or desk mount while others are freestanding. Choose what works best for the space.
Realistic vs. decorative style
Decorative designs have colored liquid and fantasy shapes. Realistic birds mimic natural plumage and movements.
New vs. vintage condition
Older vintage birds have a worn, retro look while new models are shiny and pristine. This is personal preference.
Conclusion
A malfunctioning drinking bird is usually repairable with some simple maintenance. Flushing the tubes, replacing the wick, removing trapped air, and realigning the balance can often get a drinking bird dipping again. But drinking birds with damaged tubes, bulbs, or seals may need to replaced. When purchasing a new drinking bird, consider the construction, size, mounting, and style to find one that fits your space and needs. With some troubleshooting and care, a drinking bird can provide years of fascination and fun.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my drinking bird stop working?
Common reasons a drinking bird stops working include a dried out wick, sediment buildup in the tubes, loss of the vacuum seal, trapped air bubbles, or improper alignment.
How can I get my drinking bird working again?
Start troubleshooting by checking the wick condition. Flush the tubes with vinegar solution. Refurbish seals by firing the bulbs. Remove air bubbles by shaking and tilting. Adjust the balance and alignment.
What should I do if my drinking bird won’t start working after troubleshooting?
If troubleshooting efforts don’t restart your drinking bird, it likely needs to be replaced. Signs it can’t be repaired include cloudy bulbs, damaged tubes, inability to reestablish the vacuum, and bent or broken legs.
Where can I buy a replacement drinking bird?
Replacement drinking birds are sold at science and novelty stores, online marketplaces like Amazon and eBay, flea markets and antique malls, and direct distributors of classroom supplies.
What are the key factors to consider when choosing a new drinking bird?
Important considerations include the glass versus plastic construction, size, base or mounting options, realistic or decorative styling, and choosing between a new bird versus vintage condition.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
Here are some extra troubleshooting tips for non-working drinking birds:
Check for evaporation
A key sign of trouble is if the head is no longer getting wet from evaporation. No water cycle means something is interrupting the process.
Replace the water
Swap out the water in the glass periodically. Stagnant water can develop bacterial films that may impede proper functioning.
Keep the beak sharp
File down any rounding on the beak tip to maintain a sharp point for properly contacting the water.
Remove white scale buildup
Hard water deposits around tube openings can sometimes impede water flow. Carefully clear any blockages.
Tune the tilt angle
Experiment with adjusting how far forward the bird rests. The angle affects cycle timing and evaporation rate.
Lubricate joints
A small dab of mineral oil at pivot points reduces friction for smoother rocking motion.
Troubleshooting Supply Checklist
Here are supplies to have on hand for troubleshooting drinking bird issues:
Distilled white vinegar – To dissolve sediment deposits and mineral buildup
Small brush – For clearing tubes of obstructions and debris
Propane torch – For reheating bulbs to establish vacuum seal
Mineral oil – For lubricating joints
Metal file – For reshaping the beak tip
Drinking bird wicks – Replacements for dried out or damaged wicks
Pliers – For readjusting balance and legs
Funnel – For filling bulbs with water or flushing vinegar
Safety Precautions
Take these safety precautions when troubleshooting drinking birds:
Wear eye protection when flushing tubes
Vinegar solution can squirt from the tubes under pressure. Eye protection prevents irritation.
Use heat resistant gloves when fire sealing bulbs
recently torched glass remains extremely hot. Protect hands from burns.
Secure bird firmly when reshaping beak
Filing requires applying pressure. Restrain bird to prevent slips.
Work over a tray to catch spills
Liquid can drip from the tubes during repairs. Trays prevent messes.
Care when disassembling bird joints
Glass bulbs can break if excess twisting force is applied. Disassemble gently.
Keep propane torch away from flammables
Open flame can ignite paper, fabric, or solvents. Maintain a safe work area.
Maintenance to Prevent Future Failure
Regular maintenance helps prevent a drinking bird from failing again:
Change the water frequently – Stale water promotes buildup.
Wipe down exterior – Dust inhibits evaporation from the head.
Flush interior periodically – Prevents mineral deposits.
Check wick condition – Replace if dirty or dried out.
Protect from impacts – Damage can compromise the vacuum seals.
Store safely – Place in padded box when not in use.
Ensure proper level positioning – Bird should rest tilted slightly forward.
Troubleshooting Flowchart
Follow this flowchart for systematic troubleshooting:
Problem: Drinking bird not working |
└─ Check wick condition |
└─ Flush tubes clear with vinegar solution |
└─ Refire bulbs to reestablish vacuum seal |
└─ Remove trapped air bubbles |
└─ Readjust balance and alignment |
└─ Replace damaged or non-functional parts |
└─ Repeat troubleshooting steps |
└─ Replace drinking bird |
Summary
With some basic troubleshooting, most malfunctioning drinking birds can resume their cheerful bobbing and dipping motion. By methodically checking issues with wicks, tubes, seals, air bubbles, and balance, the root cause can be identified and fixed. Some drinking birds may need replacement if damage is too severe. But a bit of maintenance and elbow grease will have most back in working order. The drinking bird remains a miraculous little invention that delights young and old when operating properly.