Because Purple Martins are social birds that live in colonies, Multiple-room birdhouses are a great choice for these swallows. These houses start from 6 rooms and can go up to 24 rooms. There are a few things to consider when buying a multiple-room birdhouse.
There are a variety of styles to choose from: hexagonal, convertible or even a replica of the Hotel California ! Have fun choosing the one that will best suit your yard. These houses can range in price from less than $100 to much more, so you can follow your budget.
You might like to consider from which material it is made of. Purple martin birdhouses are usually lightweight and can be made of aluminum, plastic or wood. Which one you'll choose really depends on what you prefer. The plastic ones are amongst the least expensive and are lightweight. As for the aluminum birdhouses, they are also lightweight, durable and easy to clean. The wooden ones have a more traditional look to them. The important factor to take in is the easy-cleaning aspect of the birdhouse. Purple Martin birdhouses should be cleaned at the end of the nesting season.
Consider these tips to attract purple martins to your yard:
- Martin houses are best hung between 10 to 20 feet off the ground ( remember that they have to be cleaned!!)
- To keep predators at bay, be sure that the martin house is a safe distance from vines, bushes and small trees; open area of about 30 feet away from trees or structures
- Place the house near permanent water sources (ponds, lakes, streams)
- The entrance hole shoud be one inch above the floor; too high makes it harder for the martins to enter and exit; too low makes it easier for predators or bad weather to find their way in!
- Be sure the entrance hole is between 1 3/4 to 2 1/4 inches, the most popular being 2 1/8 inches.
Posted by snackshackforbirds.com
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