For the past couple of days, several Blue Jays have been visiting the birdbath in my yard for a much-needed drink of water. These birds are present year-round here in Arkansas, but recently, they haven’t been showing much interest in the bird feeders. The ongoing drought has made water more crucial than ever for local wildlife, driving the birds to the birdbath far more frequently. With temperatures set to climb back into the low 80s and 90s next week, keeping a reliable water source available for birds is even more important.
I’ve previously written about the significance of birdbaths and how they can benefit local wildlife, especially during dry periods (Birds and Water: Why Your Birdbath is Essential (with Tips!)). Water sources provide birds with not only hydration but also a place for bathing, which helps keep their feathers in good condition.
Observing Blue Jay Behavior
Blue Jays are known for their intelligence and adaptability. In my yard, I’ve noticed how they approach the birdbath with a mix of caution and curiosity. In the first two photos, you can see how the Blue Jay tilts its head back to swallow water—a behavior typical of most birds, as they lack the ability to swallow like mammals do. Instead, they use gravity to help the water flow down their throats.
The third photo captures a Blue Jay glancing over its shoulder, as if keeping an eye out for potential threats or competition. Blue Jays are often wary of predators and can be quite territorial, especially when resources like water are scarce.
Camera Settings and Technique
For these shots, I used the Canon EOS R5 Mark II paired with the Canon RF 100-500mm lens, set at 500mm for maximum reach. I was shooting in aperture priority mode, which allowed me to control the depth of field while the camera adjusted the shutter speed. Here were the settings used:
- Date: 10/19/24
- Time: 7:59:39 AM
- ISO: 6400
- Aperture: f/8
- Shutter Speed: 1/250 sec for the first two photos, 1/320 sec for the third
- Exposure Compensation: +0.7
- Program: Aperture Priority
The high ISO of 6400 helped maintain a fast enough shutter speed to capture the quick movements of the Blue Jays in the low morning light. The aperture of f/8 provided enough depth of field to keep the bird in focus while creating a soft, natural background. I applied a +0.7 exposure compensation to brighten the image slightly, which helped offset any shadows created by the early morning sun.
Why Water is Essential for Birds During a Drought
Birds need water not only to drink but also for bathing, which is essential for maintaining healthy feathers. During a drought, natural water sources dry up, and birdbaths can become a lifeline for local wildlife. By providing a clean and consistent water source, you help birds stay hydrated and cool during hot weather.
Here are a few tips to make your birdbath more effective:
- Keep It Clean: Change the water daily and scrub the birdbath at least once a week to prevent the spread of diseases.
- Add a Dripper or Fountain: Moving water attracts birds more than still water. A dripper or fountain can help draw in more species.
- Provide a Shallow Area: Make sure part of the birdbath is shallow enough for smaller birds to bathe safely.
- Place It Near Cover: Birds feel safer when there are shrubs or trees nearby for a quick escape if needed.
The Importance of Observing Bird Behavior
Observing birds like Blue Jays can reveal a lot about the local environment. Increased activity at the birdbath, for instance, can indicate water scarcity, while changes in behavior might reflect shifting temperatures or other environmental stressors. Watching these birds drink and bathe offers insights into their needs and helps me better understand how to support local wildlife through simple actions like maintaining a birdbath.
The drought conditions here in Arkansas have made the birdbath a focal point in my yard, drawing in not only Blue Jays but also other species in search of water. As temperatures rise again, I expect the birdbath to remain a popular spot, providing essential hydration for the birds that call this area home.