Last Nest Check

[Sharon - Central TX]

Hello Martin lover friends,
We did our last nest check today praying there were no dead birds since they all fledged over the last few days. The heat has been brutal and we are fortunate the majority made it. It is forecast to be around 105 deg. most of this next week with heat index much higher. Whew, so glad they’ve fledged! We lost three as far as we know. Two young jumped earlier on and by the time we found them it was too late. The third bird was fully grown but had an injured tail and couldn’t fly. We took him to the rehabber but unfortunately he didn’t make it. Our last nest check all other birds were accounted for which I consider a miracle.
Most years we’re sad to see them go but this year I’m relieved they made it because we lost several to the heat last year. We still have a lot of fly byes checking things out so it’s not completely lonely.
We had two bluebird nests that fledged and they frequently visit our birdbath. They are so cute when the parents first bring them and teach them how to drink water and take a bath.
I hope those of you with martins had a successful season and those who are still waiting don’t give up hope and are rewarded next year for your patience!
Sharon in very hot Texas.

[brent]

Hi Sharon. I could have been the one who wrote your post. So similar was this season for me except I didn’t have any jumpers but did have a very hot week a few days ago and will have a brutal heat wave (the one you’re having now) this week coming. My baby Bluebirds are visiting and hanging with their parents just like yours. Hunting and learning to hunt all the while mom and dad have a new nest (3rd one this season) with 4 eggs that are to hatch around the 30th of the month. I have 2 late martin nesters, too. Not sure yet if they will make it. Both should be hatching this week but I don’t see the parents around like I did earlier. I’ll nest check Wednesday. I had 79 baby martins fledge. Had my share of hawk attacks and battles with sparrows and starlings but it all ended happy. Thanks for sharing. Take care. Brent