T14 trap problem

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RB73
Posts: 14
Joined: Mon Feb 18, 2013 5:22 pm
Location: KS/Lawrence

I'm helping with the elementary school PM project. No martins yet, but plenty of sparrows. The kids have been going out during the week to tear out sparrow nests and I am trying to trap them on the weekends. I'm using the T14 metal insert trap, but not having any success.
The sparrows have been going in and out of the trap without tripping the trap door. I have WD40'd the moving parts and always set the trap door right on the edge of the pin. I make sure nothing is obstructing the moving parts. Today I watched the sparrows building their nest inside the trap.

Another frustration is that with our Lone Star Alamo house with crescent openings I can't see the holes to tell if the trap has sprung without lowering the house.

Any tips or pointers appreciated.

Thank you
2000: 5 Pair
2001-20011: Moved. Too many trees. No Martins.
2012: Moved again. Starting over with 1 pair.
Leandortree
Posts: 130
Joined: Tue Jan 11, 2011 4:10 pm
Location: Saskatchewan/Grenfell

RB73,
I have that Trap, and it works well for me, but it's not my favorite. The HOSP can go in and out without tripping the trap mechanism, for a while but eventually they do. I have an old feather pillow, and always put a pinch of feathers in this, and all my insert Traps, the feathers lure the pests into the Traps. I would think you have already tested the tripping mechanism; if it is working, you will need to wait, it should work, as with anything in nature we need patience. Anyways I'm sorry I can't help any more then that.
Good Luck on your elementary school PM project, I hope it all works out well.
Saskatchewan "The land of living skies"
Leandortree colony
2012-46 pair 200+ Fledged
phldave
Posts: 528
Joined: Fri Jun 15, 2012 2:44 pm
Location: Iowa/Pleasant Hill
Martin Colony History: Started trying in 2012 and still trying

RB73

I am not familiar with that trap, but the home made compartment traps I use I made the trigger go clear across the full width of the entrance so If they don't bump it when they go in which is highly unlikely they will bump it befor they exit. Maybe you can alter the trigger? They're pretty stupid especally after they have laid claim to a compartment, they're going to go in.

Dave
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