Purple Martin Update

by Donna Lewis

Right now, it is very hot here in Central Texas. In fact, we are setting records for elevated temperatures.  So, how does this affect the Purple Martins who live here part of the year?

The Martins that arrive here first around January and February get their eggs laid first and their babies leave the houses first. Once they fledge and are living outside in the trees like other birds, they are not living in the houses. The trees provide shade and are so much cooler for them. So, the earlier the better. Of course, the early Martins also risk late freezes. Nature is always a challenge for any living creature that lives outside.

This year the Martins at my location have fared pretty well.  I have noticed some heat related deaths now in June and July.  As of today (July 4, 2023) I have only two babies still in the gourds and they should fledge any day now. Believe me, they need to. I don’t know how these two have survived the heat. I am sure the parents will be happy also.

Most of the Martins are training their new offspring to hunt and fly right now. The trip to Brazil will be coming soon. If they are not strong enough, they will not make the journey to their winter home.  Keep in mind, the new Martins have never been to Brazil before. Their first try must be successful.   

I always think of it as the young are getting their “driver’s license” now.  Martins live from 5 to 7 years as a rule.  So, if they are lucky, they will make the trip to the US and back to Brazil several times. It is amazing that any of them survive at all.  Weather, lack of insects to eat, and predators are always out there.

The Martins sing a lovely song when they court in the spring. It is one of the reasons humans love them so much.

I am sure they are talking to their young now and saying, ” What an adventure you are about to undertake.” 

Happy birding.