I mailed off an order today for the the 24-unit Deluxe Gourd Rack to hang my future finished natural gourds, which brings up a question. It could take some time doing nest checks, nest replacements, etc. with a 24 unit system such as this. Common sense says on one hand to do only 8 to 12 gourds at a time, and do the rest on another day. Or would it be better to do all 24 at one time, as not to disturb all nestlings in 24 cavities 2 or 3 different times to get one job done?
Just when one question is answered, another arises.
Max disturbance time for nest checks/replacements?
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Louise Chambers
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Mr. Snowman, I think you can get away with checking all cavities quickly when it's egg laying and incubation time - unless the weather is bad during incubation. If it's unsually cool or rainy, meaning they have had to leave nests longer to find food, postpone check til better weather. That rule goes for any size house or gourd rack.
When babies are hatching and parents are feeding, try to schedule nest checks for midday or early afternoon. Avoiding interrupting early and late day feeding.
In good weather, try to complete nest checks in not more than 20-30 minutes. If it's going to take more time that than, break it into two sessions with 30-60 minute gap. You'll do just fine
Louise
When babies are hatching and parents are feeding, try to schedule nest checks for midday or early afternoon. Avoiding interrupting early and late day feeding.
In good weather, try to complete nest checks in not more than 20-30 minutes. If it's going to take more time that than, break it into two sessions with 30-60 minute gap. You'll do just fine
Louise