2003 Martins sometimes build what's called a "mud dam" in their nests. No one is completely sure why they do this, but it is neat to see. This is the inside compartment in my Goliad with my first ASY nesting pair. The pink foam on the bottom of the nest is a Styrofoam nest insert used to aid in keeping the babies cooler in the heat and warmer in the cold. The sticks used in the nest are old soy bean stalks from the local farmers field. All my Martins seem to prefer this material for their nests, even in the gourds. BACK