I purchased some plastic mesh gutter protectors at Menards last week in an attempt to keep the gutters cleaner. The mess comes in a 6 inch x 20 foot roll and is moderately rigid so that it can be inserted into the gutter.The cost is only $2.10 a roll.
There have been a number of posts regarding liners in the bottom of plastic gourds that keep the nest from spinning as the martins build it. Has anyone tried plastic mesh? It would seem to be ideal as it is inert and may also keep the nest somewhat elevated.
Thanks,
Ed
Liners for plastic gourds
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Ed Svetich-WI
- Posts: 815
- Joined: Tue Jan 13, 2004 10:05 pm
- Location: Brooks, Wi (McGinnis Lake)
- Martin Colony History: 24 Super and Excluder Gourds on two gourd racks, all SREH. Full occupancy. My philosophy is to maximize fledge % with existing cavities rather than adding gourds to grow colony, thus providing opportunities for new colony expansion. Fledge over 100 nestlings yearly from 24 gourds. Band nestlings in cooperation with state university. 2019 Adendum: Reduced colony size to 12 gourds to focus on more intensive management regimen.
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John Miller
- Posts: 4866
- Joined: Mon Mar 22, 2004 9:11 pm
- Location: St. Louis, MO
I think some folks find this works well, but you'll want to make sure the mesh is secured and doesn't get flipped up. You can tie it down by running a small wire over it and down through two drain holes and twist the wires together. John M
We have successfully used nest trays for gourds, both plastic and natural, made from 1/4" galvanized hardware cloth (sometimes called rabbit screen).
The advantages of using either this hardware cloth or plastic gutter guard over wood or metal are:
lightweight.
non-corrosive.
easy to install (just temporarily fold, like a taco) thru access hole.
can easily be cut to desired shape.
when secured with wire-tie thru the drain holes, they become "concave," (nest-bowl shape) and are kept from tipping up to block the entrance.
allow for air circulation to keep nest dry.
gives hatchlings more "secure footing" to prevent leg splay.
Does anyone see any negatives or disadvantages?
The advantages of using either this hardware cloth or plastic gutter guard over wood or metal are:
lightweight.
non-corrosive.
easy to install (just temporarily fold, like a taco) thru access hole.
can easily be cut to desired shape.
when secured with wire-tie thru the drain holes, they become "concave," (nest-bowl shape) and are kept from tipping up to block the entrance.
allow for air circulation to keep nest dry.
gives hatchlings more "secure footing" to prevent leg splay.
Does anyone see any negatives or disadvantages?