![]() European starlings and house sparrows have caused large declines in the populations of many native cavity-nesting birds. ![]() The most serious problem for purple martins in many areas is nest competition. Keeping records will help in managing the colony. When possible, nests should be checked weekly to note any problems with parasites or losses from predators and to remove sparrow and starling nests. Guards should be at least 40 inches wide to protect martins from predators. Another type of predator guard is a cone of smooth metal plastic that umbrellas downward away from the pole. A section of 4-inch PVC pipe placed around the base of the mounting pole may deter snakes. Predator guards should be used to protect martins from predators. The occupancy rate can be increased by using porch dividers between “apartments.” Martin houses should maintain a relatively cool temperature. When “fully” occupied, a house will have a percentage of compartments vacant.
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