When I clean out my birdbath (only water from a hose is used) and replenish the water the birds won't go anywhere near it. They leave it for several days until it has a few dead midges etc. floating on it and begins to look like a stagnant pond, then think "Oooh Yummy!" and all drink from it (incidentally, they never use it as a birdbath). I have tried cleaning it daily but they then just ignore it altogether and go and find the nearest puddle to drink from. I have to say it doesn't seem to do them any harm but It is healthy for them to drink "old" water?
Squirrel
The necessity of bird-watching is a really good reason for avoiding all forms of housework.
The dust will still be there tomorrow - the birds may not be!
Thank you Lloyd - you hit the nail on the head with your opening sentence. Every time I clean it and put in fresh water I fully expect to see a birdie picket line brandishing placards saying "where's the yummy water gone?" !!
I have ordered the Water Wiggler gadget I mentioned above and (im)patiently await its arrival. I then propose to re-site the bath a little more out in the open, put a few washed pebbles into it before filling with water as it is possibly slightly on the deep side for smaller birds to feel safe bathing in, and watch and wait. I will let you all know how it goes.
Great stuff and yes do keep us posted!