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Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Birds Around Las Vegas, Wildlife Around Las Vegas
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin male

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.

Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin female

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.

Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin male
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin male
Purple Martin (Progne subis) Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin (Progne subis) Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin male and female
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin male and female
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin female
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin female
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin female
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin female
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Optimal habitat: open sky, grass, water, and lots of bugs
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Martin nesting colony
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin female approaching nest colony
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Purple Martin male and female at nest
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Female carrying diaper away from nest
Purple Martin (Progne subis)
Female dropping diaper at some distance from nest colony

Note: All distances, elevations, and other facts are approximate.
copyright; Last updated 240122

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