Nest building

[C.C.Martins]

I understand many landlords put nesting material in the cavities prior to their birds arrival, I did the same but have a newby question. will we witness the martins brining in nesting material despite the material in the cavities? Theres about a double handful in the house cavities but the gourds are full to the recommended line and the natural gourds almost to the neck. Last year, the only ASY pair I had completely filled the double compartment they selected.
I am wondering because I see little bowls in the nesting material in the gourds already, will they cover them up?
Thanks,
Tom

[rrmartins]

I never add anything in my T14 nest trays. They build nice big nest in the back with mud dams along the front. If we get a cold spell, I put wood shaving in one or two of them, so they can huddle and stay warm. They’re very good nest builders, good luck.
You should always clean out your old nesting at the end of each year, if they have already started building, let them be.

[C.C.Martins]

Ok thanks, they have not started...they are using the material in there but have hollowed out cups. Ill watch and learn, just like to know what to expect. Last year I suppose I put too much mud in the cavity to make it look used, the female kept taking chunks out and dropped them.

[Dave Reynolds]

That's funny to hear... A friend near me has lots of martins every year.. I help him clean out old nest at the end of the year.. About a third of his martins build the mud dams, while the rest don't.. It's amazing to me that they build a large dam in such a small (six by six) room..

Dave

[C.C.Martins]

Dave they probably build the mud dam because they feel insecure, it's added protection. Bet there aren't any in a gourd. My rooms are 6x12 and she dismantled the dam.

[Jose Rodriguez]

Tom,

I've been adding nesting material, to my gourds. They do bring in more pine needles to build a thick nest when they are ready.

[C.C.Martins]

Ok, thank you...only had one gourd nest last year didnt see any added material and have since gone with double the amount of gourds this year; just curious I appreciate the response.
Tom