Electric Predator Guard (for dummies, please!)

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Birdiegirl
Posts: 363
Joined: Sun May 24, 2020 7:03 pm
Location: Scott County Kentucky
Martin Colony History: Two poles: 2 T-14s and 8 gourds
2021- 1 pair, 5 fledged
2022- 11 pair, 36 fledged
2023- 20 pair, 78 fledged
2024- 32 pair, 109 fledged
2025- 34 pair, 117 fledged
2026-

This morning makes the second time that the snake netting on our T-14s caught a would-be predator. I was late to work :oops:, but the martins are safe and the rat snake was released unharmed.

While I appreciate the efficacy of the snake netting- it is a hassle when doing nest checks and is pretty hard on the snakes. I'm ready to upgrade to an electric system but have a LOT of questions.

I searched 'electric predator guard' on this forum, and found a lot of posts, but quickly became overwhelmed. Can anyone recommend a specific post with pictures and step by step insructions- or perhaps a video or resource elsewhere/PMCA? I am fortunate to have family that are familiar with electric systems (livestock)- but we don't know how to make them martin-housing safe.

I appreciate the help. Please contact me directly if easier.

Thank you!
Laura
PMCA member
Jones4381
Posts: 833
Joined: Sat Apr 25, 2020 10:54 pm
Location: Southwestern VA
Martin Colony History: 2020- 0
2021- 1 pair-5
2022- 5 pair-20
2023 34 pair-44
2024 30 pair-122
2025 54 Pair -178
2026 65 pair-

Birdiegirl wrote:
Thu Jul 02, 2026 10:06 am
This morning makes the second time that the snake netting on our T-14s caught a would-be predator. I was late to work :oops:, but the martins are safe and the rat snake was released unharmed.

While I appreciate the efficacy of the snake netting- it is a hassle when doing nest checks and is pretty hard on the snakes. I'm ready to upgrade to an electric system but have a LOT of questions.

I searched 'electric predator guard' on this forum, and found a lot of posts, but quickly became overwhelmed. Can anyone recommend a specific post with pictures and step by step insructions- or perhaps a video or resource elsewhere/PMCA? I am fortunate to have family that are familiar with electric systems (livestock)- but we don't know how to make them martin-housing safe.

I appreciate the help. Please contact me directly if easier.

Thank you!
Same here Birdie! Following post for this solution as I agree with each statement you made.
"Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are. When you realize there is nothing lacking, the whole world belongs to you." - Lao Tzu
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