If it is given to them in shallow, galvanized, open pans, where it often gets stale, it should be replaced at least once a day and the pans rinsed out at the same time. The pans should be so covered as to prevent the water from being soiled by birds perching directly above them. To keep them from stepping into the drinking water, round wire guards fit-ting the pans are effective. They release water sufficient only to keep it at a certain level, thus serving the birds with fresh, cool water all day long. In regions subject to severe winters, automatic drinkers tend to freeze up and thus to give trouble.
All pigeons naturally love to bathe and. to keep their feathers clean and shining.
When the birds have finished bathing, the water should be taken away to keep them from drinking it.