Purple Martin Identification

The Four Keys to ID

• Size & Shape

  Purple Martins are very large, broad-chested swallows. They have stout, slightly hooked bills, short, forked tails, and long, tapered wings.

  Relative Size

  Smaller than an American Robin; larger than a Tree Swallow.

  between sparrow and robin

  Measurements

  • Both Sexes
  • • Length: 7.5-7.9 in (19-20 cm)
    • Weight: 1.6-2.1 oz (45-60 g)
    • Wingspan: 15.3-16.1 in (39-41 cm)

  © Andrew Dreelin / Macaulay Library

• Color Pattern

  Adult males are iridescent, dark blue-purple overall with brown-black wings and tail. Females and immatures are duller, with variable amounts of gray on the head and chest and a whitish lower belly.

• Behavior

  Purple Martins fly rapidly with a mix of flapping and gliding. They feed in midair, catching large, aerial insects such as dragonflies. Martins feed and roost in flocks, often mixed with other species of swallows. They often feed higher in the air than other swallows, which can make them tough to spot.
• Habitat

  Purple Martins are colonial, with dozens of martins nesting in the same spot; they feed in open areas, especially near water. In the East they nest almost exclusively in nest boxes and martin houses; in the West you’ll find them nesting in natural cavities.

Regional Differences

Female Purple Martins in the West show more extensive white on their underparts than do eastern birds.

Regional Photos

© Michael Brown / Macaulay LibraryIndiana, August 04, 2016

© Matthew Pendleton / Macaulay LibraryUtah, May 25, 2016