We also want experienced landlords to be on the daily lookout for the arrival of subadult males and to let us know what they encounter. Because through the combined efforts of citizen scientists, such as yourself, we can add to our knowledge base on martins. Remember, we can only protect what we know, and by adding to our knowledge, participating landlords can help ensure long-term survival of the birds they love. OR, I plan to put housing this year. Be absolutely sure the birds you saw were not Tree Swallows , Barn Swallows , cowbirds , grackles , or European Starlings .
Starlings have long yellow beaks and a vocalization that is an annoying squeal.
Barn Swallows have orange bellies and long forked tails. Also, northward migrating martins travel alone, or in very small, loose, groups of 2 or 3 individuals. If you are seeing flocks of dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of birds, they aren't Purple Martins. Martins don't even think about nest building until about 4 weeks after the earliest ones return.