Sparrow trap that works

[~Ray~Gingerich]

I made up this box trap for sparrows using a trio Spare-o -door, I was using a larger version with limited success so I cut the size down and added an access port on the side. I left the wood natural and used a stiff coat hanger to hang the door. The trap is placed on a utility pole next to my houses and gourd racks 12ft up. The results have been amazing, almost every sparrow coming in can't resist the trap, don't know why? Maybe the natural color set off by the white door, or perhaps the postioning is just right but it's working!

[Guest]

Looks good, Ray!

What is the diameter of the entrance hole on your trap?

[Louise Chambers]

Ray, thanks for sharing the photo - that is the best way to show others how they could rig a homemade box with a spare-O-door.

the traps are here on pmca shop site:
http://purplemartin.org/shop/product_in ... 84d8c4bb92

The entrance hole is about 1-1/4 inches, which admits house sparrows (also wrens and chickadees, titmice, nuthatches) but not bluebirds or martins. I caught a tree swallow in mine once, so you really do have to monitor all traps frequently.

I use the same size entrance hole when making shims to place on cavities with a cage trap inside, have only caught hosp to date. But never assume - check at least twice a day, more often in hot or cold weather.

PS: Ray, couldn't you use the bird removal device that comes with a spare-O-door trap?

[~Ray~Gingerich]

Louise, I have used the removal cup and bag in the past but found it's much easier to use an access port, I don't have to worry about getting the prongs hooked in just right and if the bag is secure. If the sparrow decides to stay put I don't have to chase it out or mess around waiting and the access port makes removal easier when standing on a ladder. It's just a matter of preferance whether to use the cup or not.

[Courtney-NC]

That is a GREAT idea, Ray. I have seen several bluebird houses out here in the surrounding countryside that have a design like that, and the HOSP usually get into them. I bet that would work really well here, too.

[Fredmyyster]

How much with shipping to the 78416 area

[GeneP]

Nice Ray, very similar to mine. I'm thinking maybe building 3 in a row to closer resemble Martin housing. Of course I think about a lot of things.

[CMF]

Louise, I have used the removal cup and bag in the past but found it's much easier to use an access port,

I have little success with HS going into the orange cup/baggy and I too use the side port. Those little buggers are trained by the spirit of Houdini on escape so I use my second hand to cover the back of the hand going in the port.

CMF

[Louise Chambers]

I know what you mean about removal device not always working. I often have to bang on side of house (it's trap house only, no martins) and sometimes get a long skewer or piece of wire, slide that in under door, and make the HOSP dance on out.

[GeneP]

Mine also has a side access port. I still bring it inside a room and have a net handy. Not going to take a chance on one getting away. Your heart just sinks when that happens

[KellyG]

Great idea!! I think I will steal it!