We have Purple Martins! Seabrook Island Birders is excited to announce that a small colony of Purple Martins have discovered our Purple Martin housing at the Seabrook Island Equestrian Center!
Purple Martins are members of the swallow family and spend the summer nesting season in the United States. Many years ago, Native Americans hung empty gourds near their crops and fields, which provided housing for the birds. In turn, the Purple Martins kept the insects under control, starting the farmer/Purple Martin partnership which continues to this day. In fact, Purple Martins in eastern North America now nest exclusively in bird houses provided by people.
Members of Seabrook Island Birders recognized a need for Purple Martin housing in our area, and with the generous support from the Town of Seabrook Island’s Environment and Wildlife Conservation grant, a structure was placed at the Equestrian Center earlier this year. We are very grateful to the Town of Seabrook Island, the Environment and Wildlife Committee, and the Seabrook Island Club’s Equestrian Center for their support of this project. We’re also thankful for training and guidance from Jennifer Tyrrell, Audubon SC.
We will continue to follow the progress of these amazing birds and will provide future updates on nesting and banding opportunities, as well as educational activities for those who would like to learn more about Purple Martins.
If you visit the Equestrian Center to see them and hear their beautiful song, please watch from a distance. Thank you!
Submitted by Gina Sanders