The regal and aptly named Purple Martin is the largest of the North American Swallows.

We found this Martin in a home at The Great Swamp NWR. Eastern Martins are completely dependant on human-made housing for their successful breading. Some might think this is a modern condition created by development, but the fact is that long ago Native Americans built gourd housing for the birds to nest in. At that time Martins where secondary cavity nesters, utilizing abandoned woodpecker and other excavations for their housing. The success of the gourds, along with recent habitat loss, have made the east coast population dependant on human-made accommodations. It is truly a win-win for us. Martins keep bug populations in check and entertain with their acrobatic flight and song.
Shoot Date: June 3, 2017
Canon EOS 5D Mark III
Shutter priority ¹⁄₅₀₀ sec at f/6.3 1 EV
Lens: TAMRON SP 150-600mm F/5-6.3 Di VC USD A011 @ 600 mm
ISO: 400