the good, the bad, and more

[lucky3]

I just got a call from a long time established land lord, about 3 air miles from me. She said they had 2 martins make landings yesterday. Can't call this an official sighting, but she does not make false reports, so I know they are here. I just can't believe they are here so early. Way too early for this area, by almost 3 weeks. While this "is'' great news, those birds are going to have a tough go of it. It's supposed to be down in the teens at night by Fri., March 1sth. They have certainly caught me off guard to say the least. Incidentally, I'm located near Crossville in East Tenn., just in case anyone might be interested in this locale.

[John Miller]

Martins do th is every year...some years tougher than others. If they can hole up in a warm house, they can survive three days without feeding, if they arrived in good shape. Of course landlords can help with supplemental feeding. I put crickets in cavities mostly, but others put on platforms and fling into the air.

Best of luck to all in Tennessee..have heard Martin Fest is back this year. Have never been, but mulling it over.

[lucky3]

John, thanks for your reply re. early martins; yes they do, do it every year it seems. Where is the M. fest that you referred to and when. Might try to go also. Good luck to you Mizzuens too. Thanks again.

[D'Nese]

Lucky3, I would agree with you. It's cool and windy now but they will prevail with landlords like us. I was just scoping out the hand warmers at Wally World the other day. With those and frozen crickets they will be fine. My guys should start showing up any day now. I am located in Unionville just south of Eagleville. I'm a bit south of you guys but we should all start seeing our early arrivals. Keep us posted of your first!!!!

[lucky3]

D'nese, glad you reminded me of those hand warmers; good idea. I don't have a colony that I can call my own, but I do have a mentee that had 8 pairs last year. Also I have a small colony at my 92 year old Dad's place, that I look after. I know about where you are located; I talked to a fellow about buying a beagle pup today who lives in Rutherford; not far from you. Oops cancel that, he lives near Union City over in W. Tenn. I'll have to look at the map to find your locale. My near nighbor, 3 miles away, has martins as of Sunday; I won't see any around my wannabe site untill several days yet. Hope this is another good year for you as a landlordette. Bye for now, Three. P.S., keep me posted if you have time. Thanks.