Getting worried in NW Ohio

[Buckeye658793]

I know patience is key here but I have several friends within 20 miles from me that have had returning birds I am beginning to wonder if any of the six pair that successfully fledged young at my site last year survived the trip any encouragement would be appreciated thanks

[SSMartin]

Last year it seemed like all the reports were all around me and I didn’t understand why I had not even seen a bird. Weeks went by and one showed up and everything proceeded as normal and they kept flowing in.

With only 6 pair your probability of having the first arrivals is low. It is likely that the birds around you are just early arrivals to your area. Yours will come. Be patient I am sure some of your birds will be returning soon.

Now you are obligated to let us know as soon as one shows up

[deancamp]

It's hard not to get concerned, but if you have a young colony your birds will naturally be slower to return than an older one. I think your chances are good that several will survive the journey and build your colony stronger if you have more cavities. Good Luck!

[Buckeye658793]

Thanks for the replies and yes I will definitely let you know when the first one arrives.

[EngineerBill]

I have been providing housing for PM's for 57 years and here in NW Ohio I have seen them as early as March 17th and as late as April 19th on arrival. I agree with many that the unusual late springs are causing some of this and I also believe the goofy sun spots and or sun solar flares and messing up the bird migration. The first pair showed up today at 10ish, and a pair of barn swallows arrived today as well. I am NE of BG

[flyin-lowe]

like others have said, with only 6 pair I assume you have a young colony so they won't be as early as older colonies. You might get on the scout report and look at the history of the colonies closest to you. I am in east central Indiana and up until 2 years ago I had never had returnees back before April 1st. The last two years they are getting here earlier. From research I read on here years ago, 6 pair was the magic number to ensure you would have some make it back, again this is just statistics and mother nature can always change things up. I'm guessing you end up with more than 10 pair this year, at least.