Plans For Purple Martin House : House Plans

Plans For Purple Martin House

Purple martins are beautiful, fascinating birds that can bring joy to any backyard. They are also beneficial birds, as they eat insects that can damage gardens and crops. If you are thinking about attracting purple martins to your backyard, one of the best things you can do is to provide them with a suitable house.

There are many different plans for purple martin houses available, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget. Some of the most popular plans include:

The gourds: Gourds are a natural choice for purple martin houses, as they provide a safe and comfortable place for the birds to nest. Gourds can be purchased at most garden centers, or you can grow your own.
Wooden houses: Wooden houses are another popular option for purple martin houses. They are durable and can be painted to match your home's exterior. Wooden houses can be purchased online or at home improvement stores.
Plastic houses: Plastic houses are a lightweight and affordable option for purple martin houses. They are easy to clean and maintain, and they come in a variety of colors.

When choosing a plan for a purple martin house, there are a few things to keep in mind:

The size of the house: The size of the house will depend on the number of purple martins you want to attract. A small house will accommodate 4-6 pairs of martins, while a large house can accommodate up to 12 pairs of martins.
The number of compartments: The number of compartments in the house will also depend on the number of purple martins you want to attract. Each compartment should be at least 6 inches wide by 6 inches deep by 6 inches high.
The location of the house: The house should be placed in an open area with plenty of sunlight. It should also be at least 10 feet off the ground to protect the birds from predators.

Once you have chosen a plan for a purple martin house, you can begin building it. The construction process is relatively simple, and most plans can be completed in a few hours.

Once the house is built, you can hang it in your backyard and wait for the purple martins to arrive. With a little luck, you will soon have a colony of these beautiful birds nesting in your backyard.

Here are some additional tips for attracting purple martins to your backyard:

Provide a source of fresh water, such as a birdbath or a small pond.
Plant flowers that attract insects, such as zinnias, sunflowers, and marigolds.
Avoid using pesticides, as they can harm purple martins.
Be patient. It may take some time for purple martins to discover your house, but once they do, they will likely return year after year.