General Description: Purple Martins (Progne subis) are birds of the open sky that feed on the wing and don't often perch where you can get a good look at them. In flight, male Purple Martins appear entirely black, but at close range, the black becomes iridescent dark blue. Females are dark above and light below. Purple Martins have forked tails and are the largest North American swallow.

Taxonomy: Passeriformes, Hirundinidae, Hirundininae.

Favored Habitat: Primarily open skies with lots of bugs to eat.

Where to Find: Purple Martins are uncommon around Las Vegas, but they can be found in most habitats as they pass through during migration. Look for them over open marshy areas and water in places like the Henderson Bird Viewing Preserve, the meadow at Calico Basin, and the pasture at Corn Creek. Otherwise, look for them in eastern North America during summer and South America during winter.

Comments: Purple Martins are social and like to nest in proximity to other nests.