Purple Martin Association of the Dakotas

I don't want to see any Purple Martins here until at least May 4th. I'm looking at the flags pointing straight South and know that that cold weather is still coming. We're just in a false spring right now.

Thanks for sharing this detailed update on the season! Those are impressive fledging numbers, especially given the heat, smoke, and limited moisture challenges this year. It is encouraging to see strong productivity in spite of the environmental stressors.

The observation on reduced insect activity ...

Thank you for sharing your experience—your dedication to your S&K house and your Martins truly shows.

When it comes to reinstalling the rooftop perch, opinions can certainly vary depending on timing and the current stage of nesting. Since your Martins have already removed some of the perches ...

Good points about the blo-fly & gnat infestation.

Hello everyone,

I hope this message finds you well! My name is Perry Vogel, and I am often referred to as the "Purple Martin Man of Grand Forks." As a lifelong purple martin enthusiast, I have cofounded the Purple Martin Association of the Dakotas and am actively involved in several conservation ...

1. Temperature Regulation
- Reflects Sunlight : Painting Purple Martin houses white primarily helps reflect sunlight, which keeps the interior cooler. This temperature regulation is crucial for the health and survival of the birds and their nestlings, especially during hot weather.

2. Visibility ...

We don't have a Purple Martin banding program in North Dakota. We would be happy to collaborate with the North Dakota Game and Fish Department, but this was something that I worked towards for four years and the effort never moved forward.

I use what I have on hand for my home site. Right now I am using certified weed-free straw. Yes, Cedar shavings and Cedar pet bedding are the same. The only reason I started to use straw was because the Purple Martins used in during the years that they were building the dike in Grand Forks. It was ...

It is about normal for timing. Shortly after the Red River crests. Sometimes they are later, but I might have missed them on those years.

https://www.purplemartin.org/research/s ... Forks&S=ND

Cedar shavings are perfect to help repel fleas and other insects.