Unusual

[DelmaWhisenhunt]

I am seeing some unusual behavior of the martins that I don’t recall seeing before. Often they fly to the ground around the houses, and also light in a tree located a few feet away. I had put some sun flower seeds out for the other birds. Will the martins sometimes eat food like the other birds ? I notice their dislike of squirrels,dive at them, but don’t touch. Of course the squirrels throw their tail over their back and run.

[lynnh]

Hey Delma they're probably going to the ground for nest materials. the trees for green leaves indicates egg laying time is approaching if it hasn't already.sometimes when they go to the ground it's for grit as well as calcium. I provide oyster shells for my Martin's I'm sure that you are aware of all that . Here's hoping you have a great Martin season !

[Spiderman]

Martins do not any type of bird seed.

Are they going to the tree and the ground to retrieve leaves or twigs to add to their nests?

It should be about time for your Martins to begin laying eggs.

[DelmaWhisenhunt]

Most likely as suggested, they are building nest. Notice sometimes they fly to edge of street where dried material is found, dried grass and leaves , also small gravel from pavement. As I recall they don’t build much nest. Can’t be said for the sparrows, they can cram a nest full in short time. I had scattered oyster shells earlier. Maybe I am more observant , even tho I have not changed coffee flavor preference. Nothing more relaxing than to sit in rocker on front porch with the cup of coffee and have front row seat to watch the acrobatic show. On occasion I set up the tape player and watch them swoop over the player trying to figure out where their friends are located. So far none of my neighbors has indicated that I need to be committed for help. I have had the Martin tape for years, had lots of fun playing .