Purple martins, with their iridescent plumage and acrobatic flight, are a delight to watch. Attracting these beautiful birds to your backyard requires more than just a house; a sturdy and strategically placed pole is equally crucial. This comprehensive guide will cover everything you need to know about selecting and installing the perfect purple martin house and pole, ensuring you enjoy their presence for years to come.
What Size Purple Martin House Should I Get?
The size of your purple martin house depends largely on your desired capacity. Larger houses accommodate more families, leading to a busier, more vibrant martin colony. However, consider your location and the local martin population density. A smaller house might suffice in areas with fewer birds. Most houses offer between 6 and 12 compartments, each designed to house a single breeding pair. Researching local martin populations can help you determine the optimal size for your needs. Remember to choose a house constructed from durable, weather-resistant materials like high-quality wood or aluminum.
What Height Should a Purple Martin Pole Be?
The ideal pole height is crucial for deterring predators. A minimum of 12-15 feet is recommended, with taller being better. This height creates a considerable distance from ground predators like raccoons, cats, and snakes. However, consider any obstructions like tall trees or buildings. You want a clear flight path to and from the house. A height of 15-20 feet is generally considered ideal. Keep in mind that you will need to access the house for maintenance, so consider a height that allows for safe and convenient access.
What Kind of Pole Do I Need for a Purple Martin House?
The pole itself needs to be robust to withstand the elements and the weight of the house, plus the birds themselves. A strong, pressure-treated wood pole is a common choice, though aluminum poles offer exceptional durability and resistance to rot and insect damage. The diameter of your pole should be at least 4 inches to provide stability. Consider burying a minimum of 3-4 feet of the pole underground for added stability and to discourage digging predators. Adding concrete around the base further enhances its stability.
How Far Apart Should Purple Martin Houses Be?
While you might be tempted to cram multiple houses close together, it’s best to maintain a suitable distance. Spacing houses at least 100 feet apart encourages the development of separate colonies and minimizes competition for resources. This arrangement ensures each colony has enough space and reduces the chances of aggressive interactions between the birds.
How Do I Keep Predators Away From My Purple Martin House?
Predators are a significant threat to purple martin colonies. Beyond the height of the pole, consider adding predator guards. These are usually metal cones or baffles installed below the house that prevent climbing predators from reaching the compartments. Regular monitoring and promptly addressing any signs of predator activity are crucial. Consider using a predator guard that extends down from the house and a baffle closer to the ground to create a double barrier against climbing predators.
How Do I Attract Purple Martins to My House?
Attracting purple martins requires more than just providing a house and pole. The timing is also key. Martins typically arrive in your area during the spring. Putting up your house earlier is beneficial, as they prefer pre-existing sites. Consider adding a few small gourds or providing a water source near the house to further entice them.
What Type of Wood is Best for a Purple Martin House?
Untreated cedar or redwood are excellent choices for constructing or purchasing a purple martin house. These woods are naturally resistant to rot and decay, ensuring the longevity of your house. Avoid treated lumber as the chemicals used in the treatment process can be harmful to the birds.
By following these guidelines, you can significantly improve your chances of successfully attracting and hosting a thriving purple martin colony. Remember, patience is key—it might take some time for the martins to discover and accept your house as their new home. But the reward of witnessing these magnificent birds raise their young is well worth the effort.
