Observation of Martins and WE Still have two babies in TX

[Ken&Sheryle - TX]

This year overall was much, much better then last year. I think since my husband installed the 'vents' in each of the rooms/gourds it really helped out.

Last year during the hot season we had several dead babies for no apparent reason - one possible ruling was because of the heat.

Also, we still have Two babies Martins about ready to fledge by the end of this month -- Can you believe that. Last year they were all gone by the end of June. Also, for the last couple of weeks we have had around 50 to 70 birds coming by just sitting on the houses and talking. Boy, I am going to miss them when they are gone.

My neighbors next door moved and I was of course concern about the new neighbors not liking the Purple Martins. Also, they have a deck in their backyard which the birds have left droppings. Well, when we first met one of their first comments was they enjoy watching the Purple Martins from their house/window. Whew, what a relief. In fact, we had a fledging land in their backyard and she - the wife promptly rang my doorbell and gave me the little one since they have a dog. EVERYONE needs neighbors like that. I continue to pray that we don't have any difficulty with our neighbors right behind us, I don't think they like them @ all but they have not said a word to us as of yet.

Have a Blessed Day,

Sheryle

[Laverne]

Yes, Sheryle.

A lot of landlords have been reporting late nesting. Our last nest of 2 fledged on Monday 7/18, a full two weeks later than our normal close.

I'm just enjoying the extended season!!

[Emil Pampell-Tx]

Sheryle, its very unusual but I still have 1 pair here, and they are feeding the babies, and every day we get about 20 visitiors that stay here most of the day.