S & K Gourd rack question

[Rich Jewell In]

I am planning on purchasing a S & K gourd rack easy lift combo. It comes with either 4 big bo and 4 bo gourds or 8 big bo gourds. I had my first pair of martins last year in a natural gourd. I plan to put 4 naturals on the new rack and 4 of the S & K gourds. I also plan to use the extra four gourds for bluebirds or tree swallows. What gourds would be best to get and if I put the naturals as close to the same direction, will I be ok as far as my martins returning?

Thanks
Rich

[apundt-TX]

I would go with the Big Bos

[roblrich]

IMO the Bo-Gourds are too small, but would be fine for Bluebirds and TS's. The Big-Bo Gourds are fine, and the Double Gourds and Whistle Gourds are awesome for plastic gourds.

Also, IMO if you are replacing old housing with new, any returning PM has to look (somewhere) for a new home. And if you are replacing their old home with a newer and better home, why wouldn't they return and stay? Plus you said you are keeping or even adding naturals, so I believe you will be fine, and should even add a few nesting pair this spring.

Good luck.

[Guest]

I would suggest the Big Bo for the Martins... However, I have mostly Naturals on my rack. I think as long as there are naturals to choose from... they don't have to be in the same place as they were last year. I've never noticed the Martins here having a problem finding a gourd they liked when they returned. I like the size of the Bo Gourds, but there's no access port ( on the only ones anyways) and they are a little difficult to hang because of the shape.... they tend to tilt upwards. with that said..... it was always one of my first gourds chosen, even over my big naturals. Hope this helps.