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May 5, 2008
In the eastern U.S. and Canada the Purple Martins have become totally dependent on humans to supply them housing for nesting. Studies have shown a decline of martins in some areas so this is one more reason we need to help this beautiful native bird species by supplying them “proper” Purple Martin housing in which to raise their young. These birds are also protected and, therefore, may not be harmed in any way. Unfortunately, many of the commercial houses are inadequate for martins. In many cases the house compartments are much too small and the materials used are much to flimsy. All housing should have a few minimum standard requirements. Briefly, here are a few starters.
All Purple Martin housing should be easily accessible for maintenance and nest checks. It should be easy to raise and lower vertically. The house should be sturdy enough to withstand high winds and predators. Nesting compartments should be a minimum of 6″W x 6″H x 10″ D. Anything less is too small for martins to properly raise a brood of young and keep well out of the reach of talons of flying predators.
Housing should be painted white to reflect sun rays, keeping the house cooler. Dark colored housing is a full 10-15 degrees hotter. The heat factor is often the cause of young jumping from the nest early, seeking relief from the heat.
An absolute must is good ventilation. A couple of 1\2 inch holes placed high in the front and rear walls of the compartments allows for air flow and the young birds will need this especially in the southern regions.
Do nest checks. It is very important to know what’s going on in your colony, and they are actually fun to do. Easy access into the compartments via hinged or removable panels is imperative. The landlord needs to have easy access to clean out old nests, remove unwanted pest bird nests, and do general maintenance.
Because of the introduction of European Starlings into this country, all housing should contain starling resistant entrance holes (SREH). The new l 3/16 high crescents have proven to effectively keep 99% of all starlings out of martin housing while at the same time, allowing martins easy access.
(More helpful hints to follow)
Backyard bird supplies are found at http://www.birdsdunrite.com
May 7th, 2008 at 4:08 am
Purple Martin Housing Tips | Birds DunRite…
For bird lovers like me, this site is simply the best. All bird products that I need are in here and what’s good is that I could get them in discount prices. Check out this site that I recommend for all bird lovers out there….
May 7th, 2008 at 6:32 am
Purple Martin Housing Tips | Birds DunRite…
For bird lovers like me, this site is simply the best. All bird products that I need are in here and what’s good is that I could get them in discount prices. Check out this site that I recommend for all bird lovers out there….
May 29th, 2008 at 5:09 am
Purple Martin Housing Tips | Birds DunRite…
A simply way to design your yard or lawn and yet friendly to our feather friends is to have an assortment of bird products on it. You can check out this site and browse through the complete line of bird products from bird house and bird baths that you…