Learn about purple martin
Social Behavior: Purple Martins are highly social birds, often found in large colonies, especially during the breeding season. They prefer to roost and nest in groups and are known for gathering in large flocks, even during migration.
Migration: Purple Martins are migratory birds. They migrate to South America for the winter and return to North America in the spring to breed. Their migration routes are long, and they make two major migrations each year.
Diet: Purple Martins primarily feed on flying insects, such as mosquitoes, moths, flies, and beetles. They catch their food mid-air while flying, often soaring high in the sky to catch insects at speed.
Nesting Habits: Purple Martins prefer to nest in man-made structures, such as birdhouses and bird boxes, rather than in trees. They often use specially designed martin houses placed by people. Males typically choose a suitable nesting site and defend it during the breeding season, attracting females.
Breeding: The breeding season for Purple Martins typically begins in the spring and ends in the summer. Males court females with aerial displays and calls. They usually lay 2 to 6 eggs, with an incubation period of about 16 to 18 days.
Daily Activity: Purple Martins are most active during the early morning and evening, particularly on warm summer days. They fly swiftly and perform acrobatic maneuvers in the air to catch food. Their flight style is known for its speed and agility.
Spring is here, order and hang our purple martin house now to provide a comfortable space for these lovely flying friends to live and breed.
