Purples Martins are the largest species of swallows, ranging about 7 1/2 inches long. They do their breeding in the United States but migrate as far south as South America during the winter months. They usually mate for life and are migratory. Purple Martins usually return to the same nest they had the year before. People love installing Purple Martin Houses in their backyards to attract them. Creating your own Purple Martin House isn't that hard and you'll get the enjoyment of seeing your feathered friends visiting every year.
Instructions
Tips on Setting Up a Purple Martin House
1. Figure out where you'd like to place your Purple Martin House in your backyard. Place it in an open area, away from any trees. Otherwise, predators will be able to get inside of the birdhouse.
2. Purchase your materials at your local home improvement store. You'll need two 12-foot long 4-by-4 inch boards, a metal strapping kit, four 2-inch screws, a bag of concrete, a 10-by-10 inch piece of wood, and a pre-made birdhouse.
3. Attach your two 4-by-4 inch boards together by using the metal straps. Lay the boards end to end and place the metal strap on one side of each board. Screw the screws in the openings of the strap that came with the strapping.
4. Take your 10-by-10 inch board and screw it onto the top portion of one of the poles. It will hold better if you use two screws about 2 inches apart. Screw them into the top of the pole.
5. Place your birdhouse on top of the board. Screw one screw into the base edge on one side of the birdhouse to the board. Repeat this step with the other side of the birdhouse. The birdhouse should now be firmly attached to the board and the pole.
6. Dig approximately a 4-foot hole where you plan to install the Purple Martin house. Mix your concrete per the instructions on the bag. Insert the bottom of the pole into the hole and have another person hold it. Pour the concrete into the hole around the pole. Fill the remainder of the hole with dirt and pat firmly down. Once your concrete cures, the pole will be firmly attached in the ground and ready for the birds to come visiting.
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