Placed along a number of yards and marinas along Chautauqua Lake, these gourds create little neighborhoods for a number of nesting Purple Martins (Progne subis). During the breeding season, Purple Martins will take up residence in these man-made houses to safely nest and raise their young. As the little ones begin to hatch and grow, both the male and female will collect bug food to bring back to them. These large aerial insectivores are incredibly acrobatic and able to turn on a dime in order to pursue a fleeing insect. This summer season, no bug will be safe while the Purple Martins are in town!
Elyse Henshaw
Conservation Technician
