Purple Martins "400" Questions & Answers. Birds, the Barometers of the Environment

Why do more people spend more money attracting and trying to attract and house purple martins than any other bird today?

The reasons of course, are many.

Recent data has now become available showing that the American public spends close to $30,000,000.00 annually on purple martins! Indeed, a multi-million dollar business.

The very fact that one can put out housing for these people oriented birds and have them so willingly and faithfully return year after year to the same nesting site is not only rewarding, but also exciting and fascinating. The emotional thrill of seeing the first scout return to ones own established colony each Spring is an unforgettable event.

The purple martins have so many qualities that are so endearing to mankind. Not only are they a beneficial aerial insectivore, but so pleasing to people is their cheerful demeanor. Their unrestrained enthusiasm is out going and contagious. Their happiness is so spontaneous and exuberant, and their aerial displays so spectacular, a person can't help but to admire these beautiful birds antics. Few things can be more lastingly and deeply satisfying than to listen to natures own music in its wild state.

In today's fast paced world, enjoying birds is a dimension that is missing in far too many people's lives. We need to get back to the basics of living a family life. Wherever possible, by becoming a purple martin landlord and host to these beautiful and graceful birds, will provide a golden opportunity to get the whole family involved at an early age. These semi-domesticated birds are not only people oriented, but also family oriented!

In summation, it is my (Chris J. Slabaugh Sr.) sincere hope that this book will arouse and create a dynamic desire within ourselves as to cause us to be more zealous, to enthusiastically devote more of our time and tireless effort in support of these most popular and friendly native birds, the purple martins.