It's been a week and I would have to give the copper pipe in a birdbath theory a solid B.
It has been keeping the algae at bay (just a little water pun), for the most part.
Now, the water is not crystal clear. I wouldn't be throwing on my bathing suit and diving into it quite yet.
Because it seems the other half of my problem with the birdbath is the stuff the birds drag in. Worms. Poop. Other unidentifiable bird filth.
The copper won't help you with that type of bad bird behavior. But the green gunky algae, that I used to have to clean out of here every few days, has slowed down quite a bit.
I think I will still have to change the water at least once a week, but that is still better than changing it every other day and cussing at the #*$& birds as I do it.
Birds are nasty little creatures. Thank God He made them pretty.
Carol
A piece of lavender in the basin works fairly well in keeping it free of algae.
Laurie S
While this idea may keep the bath cleaner, copper is TOXIC to birds! (Check out this article: http://thegabrielfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2012/11/HeavyMetalToxicosis-in-Birds-LafeberVet.pdf and read the signs of copper toxicity, or do a web search on the subject") A small pipe or wire may be enough to affect a bird, as they have very sensitive systems!
Mimi
Hi, Pam.
I still like to change my water every other day --- to get rid of the mosquito problems that "standing water" in the yard attracts