Should I turn my dawn song on?

[taxidermy lady]

I know the martins in my area know where I am at, but it's making me crazy not playing this thing. Idk why! I would rather not play it because it's like I am lying to the birds I know darn if you don't and darn if you do!
Thanks for suggestions!

[tlragsdale]

Rather than thinking of it as "lying" to the martins, consider it as advertising "nice place available---if your current residence isn't up to par, or the landlord doesn't care for the site, come check out my place".

We live in western WI, and the past two years have seen returning birds around the 15th of April. Even though it's early, I'm getting ready to plug the timer/dawn-song tape back in.

Good luck in the coming season.

[taxidermy lady]

Yeah sounds good Terry, I guess playing it most of the whole martin season last year and no success it just gives me second thoughts! I have my decoys up. Thank you very much!
Good luck to you!!

[tlragsdale]

What the heck….just went out and hooked-up our player to test it out. It'll be playing in the morning, starting at 0430 .

Let us know how your season progresses.

Good luck!!

[tlragsdale]

Hate when I duplicate postings….

[Courtney-NC]

While I manage 3 public sites elsewhere, I am still trying to get martins at home. I didn't get my first visitor until April 17th last year, but I have already turned on my dawnsong player for the season. I'm sure the neighbors are already rolling their eyes.

So what the heck, go ahead and turn it on now. Who knows, maybe you'll teach your neighborhood mockingbird a few new things.

[taxidermy lady]

Thanks Courtney, I wish I knew what they are thinking when they come to a site and hear the cd and no movement! We may not want to know!!!

[avesrun]

TL I started playing dawn song in a.m. a few days ago and chatter cd during day. I don't play either of them unless I'm home. I'm leery of using it for the most part. Generally speaking, at my first sighting of a Martin I turn off the cd. I think it's a powerful tool for attracting martins; however, I believe once they come in the cd has done its job and should be shut off. Just one person's opinion.
TimG

[Gobbler T]

As I recall... You stated earlier this spring that you were not going to play the dawnsong this year. Now... early into the season your wondering if you should turn it on!
Girl you tickle me!!!!
Whatever you decide to do, It won't be the wrong thing! Good luck this year. I'll be watching for your success post.

[ToyinPA]

Turn it on & when you get one to land turn it off. I hope you get a colony this year.


Toy in PA

[KevinS]

What time and how long should I play the dawn song?

[taxidermy lady]

Yeah you know how us women are we just can't make up our minds!

Thanks Toy, good luck to all