Nesting Chores and Wars, Part 3 - Purple Martins

Purple Martins are one of those birds that attract a following. They have glamour and do their best to eliminate bugs in the air. They nest and spend their social time colonially. Native Americans reportedly hung hollowed gourds in trees to encourage the mosquito-hunting birds to roost nearby. Nowadays people add many-doored dollhouse looking structures on poles to their gardens with the certainty of an intriguing landscape ornament and the possibility of hosting fascinating birds.

Back in the summer of 2016 David Wise suggested we go see the Purple Martin colony on Plum Island. By virtue of a financial contribution David was an honorary landlord of the condominium that supported the last stronghold of these birds in Essex County. David was a longtime member of the Friends of Halibut Point State Park and was intrigued with the possibility that Purple Martins might find the Park hospitable. 

David Wise, second from left, and Sue McGrath, right, at Plum Island

We arranged a tour with principal colony champion Sue McGrath of Newburyport. Sue advocated investing in a plastic gourd array that can be lowered by rope and pulleys to monitor the birds' welfare and clean out competing nesters. 

The birds are not unduly disturbed by Sue's health exams and data gathering. She checks for mites, spoiled eggs, and unwelcome species.

The 24-gourd array at Plum Island

The visit to Plum Island encouraged us to pursue an installation at Halibut Point. Barbara Buls, DCR Regional Interpretive Coordinator, guided the project through the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Chris Leahy of the Massachusetts Audubon Society provided sponsorship and private donations. Sue came down to consult on location possibilities. We ordered a kit from The Purple Martin Conservation Association and had it erected in time for the early-April arrival of migrants from South America.

A Tree Swallow nesting in the 6-gourd array, Halibut Point,

House Sparrows swarming

The first nesting birds to settle in that year was a pair of Tree Swallows, only a minor disappointment to the local sponsoring committee. We researched the matter. Experienced sources recommended diligent monitoring to keep out swallows and bluebirds.

House Sparrows surrounding the Purple Martin decoy

As time went on thuggish House Sparrows drove out the swallows and expropriated the complex for themselves. Advice from The Purple Martin Conservation Association website reflected longstanding frustration: "Both House Sparrows and European Starlings are non-native species and are not protected under any migratory laws. The easiest way to control the species are by means of trapping or shooting."

Bluebirds, perhaps investigating

Who can say what should pass through the finest mesh of charm? Next week we will consider nesting boxes for Eastern Bluebirds. We have yet to entice Purple Martins to Halibut Point.