The temperatures have finally approached what could be considered normal here in south central Wisconsin. We still had snow flurries as late as last Tuesday but the temperatures were around 70 over the weekend and are forecast to be near 80 degrees tomorrow before ending up in the 60s later this week. Everything is about two weeks late due to a winter that did not want to give up but the martins have continued to arrive. The trees have just begun to bud out and the farmers are late with the crops.
I picked up another 4 or 5 over the weekend but still no SY birds. I got a good look at them over the weekend and all 22-23 are ASY. Seven are females so there is quite a bit of squabbling for their attention. I had 11 pair last year so I must be drawing ASY birds from somewhere else.
It is interesting to read concerns about cold temperatures in the South. I guess it is all relative. If it is at least in the upper 40s, the martins around here seem to be fine. I lost one ASY female several weeks ago but the temps were never out of the 20-30s for several days with wind and rain. I realize that wind and rain compound the danger with temperatures but I wonder if Northern martins can withstand slightly colder temperatures that would cause death further South?
I hope everyone has a good year.
Ed
Weather finally spring like in central Wisconsin
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Ed Svetich-WI
- Posts: 815
- Joined: Tue Jan 13, 2004 10:05 pm
- Location: Brooks, Wi (McGinnis Lake)
- Martin Colony History: 24 Super and Excluder Gourds on two gourd racks, all SREH. Full occupancy. My philosophy is to maximize fledge % with existing cavities rather than adding gourds to grow colony, thus providing opportunities for new colony expansion. Fledge over 100 nestlings yearly from 24 gourds. Band nestlings in cooperation with state university. 2019 Adendum: Reduced colony size to 12 gourds to focus on more intensive management regimen.
Thanks for the update Ed. I had a pair visit yesterday 
Not holding my breath tho. They landed twice on my mss trio, and once on my mini castle. Keeping my fingers crossed. 
I hope you have a great season. Annie
Not holding my breath tho. They landed twice on my mss trio, and once on my mini castle. Keeping my fingers crossed. I hope you have a great season. AnnieKeep trying and keep your chin up, its easier to see the martins coming!!
nothing here by Seymour, WI
although there have been ASY deaths in the area from the cold and snow earlier in April. 6 dead near Pestigo, WI.--probably more than that--that is just what we know of.
my dad has a few up by Crivtiz, WI
although there have been ASY deaths in the area from the cold and snow earlier in April. 6 dead near Pestigo, WI.--probably more than that--that is just what we know of.
my dad has a few up by Crivtiz, WI
mike neppl
green bay, wi
green bay, wi
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Ed Svetich-WI
- Posts: 815
- Joined: Tue Jan 13, 2004 10:05 pm
- Location: Brooks, Wi (McGinnis Lake)
- Martin Colony History: 24 Super and Excluder Gourds on two gourd racks, all SREH. Full occupancy. My philosophy is to maximize fledge % with existing cavities rather than adding gourds to grow colony, thus providing opportunities for new colony expansion. Fledge over 100 nestlings yearly from 24 gourds. Band nestlings in cooperation with state university. 2019 Adendum: Reduced colony size to 12 gourds to focus on more intensive management regimen.
I think you guys up further North had it colder and maybe longer.I hate to see any martins die considering how far they have to fly to get back here.
There are two more small colonies within about 12 miles of me with returning martins thus far.Hopefully,they will be able to grow this year.
Annie,I know you have been trying for some time. I hope this year they will stay.
Ed
There are two more small colonies within about 12 miles of me with returning martins thus far.Hopefully,they will be able to grow this year.
Annie,I know you have been trying for some time. I hope this year they will stay.
Ed