Hello from Suffolk Virginia

[Dohcsvt]

I am a new PM landlord hopeful. I have always enjoyed my backyard bird feeders and nest boxes that I have attracted Easter Bluebirds, chickadees and titmice with. A friend of mine gave me a house and pole that he found when cleaning out his fathers basement so I decided to put it up this year. There are two PM boxes in a field within a half mile (by way of the crow) from my place, also there is a small lake about 300 yards from me. My yard is by no means perfect for PMs but I am hopeful. My main goal here is to maybe find someone near me that can help me recognize when the new birds should be in my area. From the scout report, the scouts are already near me, just awaiting the yearlings to return and hopefully find my home offering.

[C.C.Martins]

Hello and welcome! I hope you do attract purple martins, sounds like they will be in good hands. This is an awesome place for help.
To find landlords or mentors, there is a list of folks willing to help. If you look at the main page, select education from the drop down and you will see mentor program. From there you can find folks near by.
Failing that, please keep active here and ask the questions you have. Many, many experienced landlords who are willing to help because we have all been there.
Best,
Tom

[deancamp]

If you have scout reports in your area, put your housing up and start playing the Dawn Song. From what I have experienced and heard others say, more colonies are started by ASY males than the one year old SYs. It should be placed in a wide open area with clear flyways. Make it look lived in with decoy and prenesting.

[Dohcsvt]

Thank you for the responses. I need to buy the dawn song and start playing it.

[Thomas Maddox]

I have the Song Bird Magnet. It was recommended to me by many experienced landlords here. This is a great forum. Welcome!