Starling proof entrances

[Jmmaly]

I'm a newbie. Just put up this year a 12 gord unit with half oval openings. There are birds now showing up but it appears they can't get thru the opening. Both male and female go ion part way but not completely. Wondering if this is normal or are openings too small? Thanks

[SSMartin]

This is normal for new birds at a site. They can get in but the pressure on their back makes them nervous at first. They’ll push through when they are ready. Just let them have at it they’ll be squeezing through in no time.

The piece of mind of not having starlings entering and killing your martins is well worth the slight adjustment period.

[Jmmaly]

Thank you. They, 3 males, showed up for the first time yesterday and hung around for about 30-45 minutes then left. Today about the same time a larger group showed up including some hens. Hung around for about an hour then gone again. Maybe scouts? I have a morning song unit playing and I definitely think it works.

[SSMartin]

They could just be investigating due to the recording but it is those looking for a new nesting site which will start your colony. If the males brought in females there’s a good chance they like your site. There really is no scouts since most martins always return to the previous nesting site they were successful at the previous year.

There are martins looking for a new site because their old site is either gone or over taken by starlings/sparrows or there was too much predation (snakes,owls,hawks). Also the sub adults who arrive 4-8 weeks after the adults almost all of the sub adults seek a new location. Keep the recording playing until you have birds spending the night in your gourds. You’ll see them return at sunset. Good luck

[flyin-lowe]

There are plenty of old topics about what is called SREH anxiety, especially for new land lords. A big percentage of martins fledged from SREH. At a new site it is not uncommon for martins to just peak into a cavity. Even with round holes I have seen them do this when they first arrive. If they want in your cavities they will go in. If they leave I would not blame the SREH......They either didn't like your site, or they were just passing through on their way to their housing from last year.

[Jmmaly]

Wow, thanks. I feel much better and a little smarter too. Much appreciated!