Purple Martins are one of North America's greatest conservation success stories. Learn how these beautiful swallows came to depend on human-provided housing, why thousands gather in spectacular pre-migration roosts each summer, and how birders can help ensure their future.

Fall migration starts much earlier than most birders realize. Shorebirds begin appearing along the Gulf Coast by mid-July, Purple Martins gather in massive pre-migration roosts, and millions of birds prepare for journeys that span continents. Discover the amazing distances birds travel and how fall migration can improve your bird identification skills.

Where should you hang a nest box? How big should the entrance hole be? Are gourds better than martin houses? Learn the essential nest box facts that help cavity-nesting birds stay safe and raise successful broods in your backyard

Purple Martins are the only North American songbird that now depends entirely on humans for nesting (with some groups in the southwest still nesting in natural cavities). Learn where they live, what habitat they need, how to set up proper housing, and why monitoring for predators and invasive species is essential to helping this remarkable bird survive and thrive.

Purple Martins now rely almost entirely on human-provided housing. Learn their habitat needs, house dimensions, and how to monitor and protect thriving colonies.