Wow, What a year. I almost doubled my martin population. I ended up with 93 nesting pair up from 48 in 2007. I also learn a valuable lesson.
With double the size comes double the work, worry and opportunity
for predation. I would only change a few things.
Snake netting is a must. I caught two this year both of which were
over 5 feet long. (Thank you Steve K.) I had my first Raccoon attack
this year he killed about 20 babies before he assumd ambient
temperature. Oh Yea, then the flying predators those ^%$#@
hawks.
Sounds like a lot of trouble to anyone those of us who are fortunate enough to host these wonderful birds. To hear their song and watch
the aerobatics is joy like no other.
Now there is silence. No dawnsong, no watching them bathe in the
evening, only silent sunsets.
I can not wait till next season. Here's hoping you can't either.
Sam