The Albert Lea Audubon chapter was instrumental in helping the future of the popular bird, the purple martin, on Saturday. A new 14 compartment (T-14) nesting house was erected by Audubon members and other friends of the purple martin. Minnesota DNR money from the “non-game wildlife check-off” was used to purchase a pole, winch and cable system.

The purple martin, native to Minnesota, is the largest member of the swallow family. They migrate from their wintering ground in Brazil to Minnesota starting in early April each year. Their diet is exclusively flying insects which may partially account for their popularity. Their cheery song and acrobatic flying add to the enjoyment. Historically they nested in tree cavities, but today are 100 percent dependent on man provided housing.

The Edgewater Park North T-14 has features recommended by the Purple Martin Conservation Association in Pennsylvania and by long-time martin landlords. These include: European starling resistant entries, large compartments, easy-open fronts, removable nest trays (for checking baby conditions and for cleaning) and a winch and cable system to be able to raise and lower the house for easy nest monitoring. These features are important to reduce invasive species competition and for parasite control.

Purple martin numbers have declined by over 60 percent since the 1970s. By doing regular nest checks Albert Lea, Audubon and other birders hope to increase nest productivity and reduce mortality rates.