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Kestrel Falcon Conservation: Box #2
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LEFT: Kestrel Nest Box built out of 10" PVC water pipe and 1/2" marine plywood on back of highway sign in
Frederick County, MD. |
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ABOUT THIS EFFORT: In August of 2001, I contacted the MD State Highway Administration to discuss the possibility of instituting a Kestrel nest box program modeled after Iowa's program. They said this most likely would be officially supported and that in a few months we could meet to discuss the details and all guidelines. During a meeting on January 8, 2002, I was given permission to place the first of three nest boxes on Rt 340 West in Frederick County, MD. By 3 PM, I had affixed the nest box to the eastbound: "17 / Brunswick / Burkittsville / Exit 1 Mile" sign. Careful habitat and climate considerations were taken before deciding on that site. The box faces due east and is near a weathered barn. Cylindrical nesting structures absorb less of the sun's heat than flat-sided ones. It's away from disturbances other than the constant traffic on the adjacent highway. Six hose clamps were combined to form three large bands, which secured the box to the 32" circumference I-beam. Kestrel boxes should be a minimum of 10' high. This one is 15-1/2' at its base. It is difficult, exhausting, and expensive to build such high supports, so using existing ones like this sign support is ideal. The boxes should not be placed in trees if possible because bugs and predators enter them. All known or suspected events concerning this Kestrel Falcon house will be documented here. |
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4/26/02. A not-for-profit, individually-run web site by: John R.C., |  | |||
