Im back

[RCruz]

Its been forever since Ive been available to do anything purple martin related. Trying to juggle everyday responsibilites and the things I like to do has been tramatic. I find with spring approaching, I have had to get my butt in gear.I have been working on several projects that have turned into real time conumers. first off I have been keeping a Big Brown bat all winter.I have never had an up close and personal relationship with a bat before. amazing mammals bats are. I will save that subject for another day.It has inspired me to construct a few bat houses. Interesting bat houses to,,,, heated! On top of that Im just in the middle of finishing a Chimey Swift tower. My own design and a prototype. Chimney swifts will be going the way of the Passenger Pigeon someday.now is the time to do something about it. thing is they DO NOT nest in colonies.One pair per Chimney.Non breeding birds can roost with a nesting pair, but not another pair of breeders. Interesing birds that people soould consider opening their chimney to. Blue birds.. Ive been trying to attract blubirds for a few years now.They are not common in my neck of the woods. I have managed to set up a small bluebird trail behind my home in the utilities Right of way. I am adding another nesting log in hopes attracting two pairs of nesting flickers this year. The chickadees are already looking at their nesting log. The pursuit of the Purple Martin has entered its 12th year. This year new houses are going up including a highly modified castle in my front yard. last year everyone who wanted martins in my town got them except me and Im right accross the street from 80 of them. So as I struggle to get my ducks in a row, I will do my best to get online to add a bit of wit and wisdom to this forum.

[Terry Suchma]

Rick,

I am glad you are back! Keep this conference going and interesting. but, I know you will.

Terry

[Terry Suchma]

k,

In case you did not know, there is an org that promotes the conservation of Chimney Swifts at:

http://www.Chimneyswifts.org

And, I believe that they have a Chimney Swifts Nite Out every year, too.

Terry

[Lou King]

Rick. Welcome back. I'll be watching for your posts. CUL Lou

[Donnie Hurdt]

Hello Rick, I am the truck driver (now ex truck driver) that talked to you on the phone a few times several years ago. I dont have martins yet either, although they are nesting in colonies close by,and I have a chinmey swift tower up too, no takers last year am hoping for this year. Looking forward to talking to you again.