help with bird bath/fountain

[Ellis Baker]

Hi. I've been referred to whatcombirds after several emails to various organizations seeking information. Crows recently discovered my bird bath/fountain. This has led to some issues. I'm wondering if whatcombirds is actuI'ally the best place to ask for help. It seems mostly focused on local birds.

In case you're curious:

Some of the crows have been rinsing their food in my bird bath. This resulted in a gray sludgey slimy growth in the water. I've started using an enzyme additive, which helps, but I find myself wondering if this additive is really as safe for birds as the label declares.

The filter in my fountain disappeared and I found vegetation crammed into the slot. I suspect crows. I'd like to replace the filter and buy extras, but the fountain is no longer for sale and I haven't been able to track down a manufacturer--just the seller. I've tried locating replacement filter material that I could cut to size. It'd be about 1/4-inch thick and about 1 inch by 1 1/2 inch. I don't need a huge roll of filter material. No idea who to ask about this. I've tried various garden centers and Reddit subreddits.

Bought a copper disc. It disappeared within a couple of days. I suspect crows. I'd like to replace the bird bath insert anyway. It was hanging, but I kept bumping into it and spilling water all over myself, so I bought brackets and mounted it on my patio divider. Now the plastic insert doesn't fit properly because of the brackets. I've contacted a couple of local metal artists in hopes of finding someone who can make a metal (safe for birds) insert that fits around the brackets and hopefully incorporates copper. Pirate Metal Works initially expressed interest but then decided they didn't have the skills for this.

Do you know of anyone who would be interested and willing to help me with this?

I experience some chronic illnesses, so I often don't have the energy or concentration to follow through in a timely manner. I have a chore volunteer who maintains my bird feeders and bird bath/fountain. Watching all the activity is a definite boost to my mental health. I'd like to make sure the birds are safe while I enjoy them.

I have profound hearing loss, so phone calls aren't for me. I can be contacted at baker...@gmail.com or texted 360-756-0356.

Thanks in advance.