question for the folks with gourd systems

[orbit1]

I have some birds that started to nest in my super gourds. I have purchased those hawk guards, and what I'm wondering is this:

-- do I put these on after they lay eggs, or do I put them on at the beginning of the season next year?

I don't want to cause a disruption in their flight pattern into the gourd, so I'm a little apprehensive.

Thanks in advance.

[John Miller]

The martins will flutter in front -- assuming the prong type guards -- for several minutes or maybe longer, and then ajust. If a female is incubating, I'd be cautious and maybe wait until next year. At a minimum, do it mid day, so the martins have time to get used to the guard. At worst would be evening when the female is trying to settle in for the night.

What martins find when they arrive is much less upsetting to them than changes later, but you can add the guards, especially if you suspect you are at risk of predation.

[orbit1]

Thanks for the advise, I really appreciate it.