My neighbor (and brother-in law & sister) was fortunate to get the first nesting pair in his T-14. We lowered the house and there were 4 eggs so far. She is not incubating yet.
He also had 1 pair in both 1999 & 2000.
This would be the only pair of nesting Martins in Beaver County PA that I would know of.
There is still other activity. Another male that has been hanging out brought a female to my site this morning for quite a long time. Her 2nd morning in the area. She sat and looked around and sang a little, but did not enter his cavity with him. They are very close to becoming a bonded pair.
Still might be time for another pair if this girl sticks with him.
Interest is in round hole T-14. Many others to choose from.
Doug
It's official, Martins & eggs in Fombell
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Doug Martin - PA
- Posts: 1920
- Joined: Thu Mar 25, 2004 10:47 am
- Location: Pennsylvania/Fombell
- Martin Colony History: First pair in 2009 after 28 years of trying. 3 pairs 2010, 17 pairs 2011 and 35-45 pairs since. Many additional colonies are now springing up around mine in an area once completely void of Martins. I offer 50 compartments at my site consisting of primarily Excluder II gourds on Gemini racks. Also a wooden T-14. I utilize electric fence type predator guards on the base of the poles. Supplemental feeding is crucial in maintaining my colony. I platform feed throughout the season as needed. My site tends to be a stop over point for additional birds as they migrate further north.
Supplemental feeding plays a major role in western Pennsylvania. Finally got my 1st pair in 2009 after 28 years of effort. 3 pairs in 2010. 17 pairs in 2011. 35 pairs and 150 young in 2012 & 2013. Plus a new 22 pair colony right down the road from me.
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Laverne
- Posts: 2216
- Joined: Thu Jan 08, 2004 1:58 pm
- Location: TX/Alvin
- Martin Colony History: Erected 1st house in 1997. Birds were checking it out before Mike got down from the ladder. Six cavities had a little colony 1st year. Grown to 88 cavities all gourds with near 100% occupancy. Most important factor for success is rain = bugs.
Wow, Doug - Congratulations!
The only way it could be any better would be if they were nesting in your housing!
The second pair you spoke of sounds very promising. I am slowly learning that Purple Martin presence does not mean Purple Martin nesting is inevitable. So, I won't celebrate - yet - keep us posted.
I wasn't gonna say it - but I will...
I've got my fingers and toes crossed!
The only way it could be any better would be if they were nesting in your housing!
The second pair you spoke of sounds very promising. I am slowly learning that Purple Martin presence does not mean Purple Martin nesting is inevitable. So, I won't celebrate - yet - keep us posted.
I wasn't gonna say it - but I will...
I've got my fingers and toes crossed!
Sincerely,
Laverne
Laverne