Purple Martin Housing

If you're a migrating purple martin, clean, affordable, secure housing can be tough to locate. Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge has helped meet the birds' challenge by providing state-of-the-art housing, including adding 12 new gourd houses. Last year when the houses were set up for residency, every space (42) was taken within a few days. The bird housing was provided by donations through Coastal Wildlife Refuge Society, the local refuge Friends group that provides refuge support and assistance. Purple martins are very social, active and vocal birds. Once these houses are full of their annual visitors you'll be able to see and hear them on Milltail Road, just south of the Alligator River National Wildlife Refuge maintenance shop.

Story Tags

Birds
Birdwatching
Migratory birds
Photography
Wildlife refuges
Wildlife viewing

Recreational Activities