Martins Have Arrived

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Cloudwalker
Posts: 13
Joined: Thu Jun 16, 2016 1:52 pm
Location: Carroll, Iowa
Martin Colony History: I have had Martins for for about 34 years. I moved so I had to reestablish a colony. I did not keep good records but have fledged many birds over the years. I am passionate about Martins and love sharing and helping others enthusiasts!

I am in Carroll, Iowa somewhat upper half of state. The Martins came last week. It is always such a joy to hear their chatter. I bought some sparrow traps because I have some very determined sparrows and last year I am sure one of the eggs was pierced by a sparrow! I had the holes plugged until the Martins arrived that gave me some relief from pulling the sparrow nests but now I am always amazed they can make a whirl of debris in a cavity in only one day! I hope my traps come soon enough. I thought the sparrows would not become so established if I kept the holes plugged but man they are determined. The Martins keep them away from the west side but one the east the sparrows take over. I hope more Martins come I only see a couple pairs so far.
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BillieJR
Posts: 766
Joined: Tue Apr 11, 2017 11:39 am
Location: Monroe, WI

Isn't it amazing how fast those sparrows can build a huge nest? And I swear, they and the starlings are just sitting, watching and waiting for us to open up the entrances!! What kinda sparrow traps did you get?

How many years have your had martins?

Good luck with your season!
Billie from southern Wisconsin
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