gourd rack and electric lines

[birdy girl]

Is there any rule as to how close a gourd rack can be placed to electric lines? I have read that martins like to perch on the lines.

Do predators, such as owls and hawks, also perch here just waiting on the martins?

I guess what I am trying to find out is if a gourd rack being close to power lines (within 20 to 30 ft) more of a benefit or a danger for martins?

[Guss P O'Brien]

According to me, benefits far outweigh dangers.

[Emil Pampell-Tx]

The martins love the power lines and they are a definite plus, as you will find the martins love to sit on them. About the hawks and owls, if they do sit on them, the martins can easily see them and stay away from them, whereas in a tree nearby the hawks can go unseen and then attack. Its being seen vs. not being seen, so the martins will not be in danger. In fact they sit up high on them and they can see the hawks trying to approach the colony

[Guest]

if you could find a spot surrounded by power lines that would be great i would say mine are about 30 feet away i wouldnt put them any closer than that because remember the PM is a very acrobatic bird and loves to fly if you find a spot surrounded there would be plenty of perches for them i reall would worry about a hawk or owl i have never seen them on power lines the most i would worry about is the rack itself cause more than likely they would sit on that instead of the power line. K

[John & Linda - KY]

But be sure that the power lines don't pose any danger when you raise and lower the housing or first install the pole. People are electrocuted often by allowing poles to fall into electric lines. -- John

[birdy girl]

I will be very careful. I have heard of that happening.