What do purple martins use for nesting material?
Purple martins are large swallows native to North America. They nest in man-made housing or abandoned woodpecker cavities. The nesting material should create a hospitable environment.SignificanceThe nest is vital for the survival of purple martins. It provides shelter and protection during the breeding season. Purple martins migrate to North America from Brazil to breed. Each pair of purple martins are monogamous.NestingThe nest is built using mud, grass and twigs. Both the male and female take part in building the nest. The female will lay two to seven eggs and incubate them for 15 days. An additional 26 to 32 days is spent feeding the young.Nest ChangesWhen it becomes necessary to change a purple martin’s nest due to larva infestation, use material such as pine straw or wheat straw to rebuild the nest. Add enough material so the nest is level with the entrance hole.WarningCedar shavings should not be used for purple martin nests. The chemical naphthalene within cedar shavings can har