The results of the nest checks are tabulated and sent to the PMCA at seasons end for inclusion in their research. The experienced adults in the Natural Gourds may account for the higher success rates. The photographs show several chicks poking their heads out of the gourds anxiously awaiting their next meal. Feeding had become an almost constant activity with both parents bringing insects for the young. During several routine nest checks we discovered gourds with excessive numbers of mites.
Mites are small parasites that attach themselves to the adults and young and feed on blood.
We gently removed the birds, sprayed the gourd with denatured alcohol, let it dry and replaced the nest materials and the birds. This significantly reduced the numbers of mites in the nest. This nest replacement activity was repeated as necessary throughout the season. Don't add the DE when the chicks are very young or your eggs are about to hatch. A telescoping mounting pole with six roosting arms.