Birds of Cuba, Vagrant Visitors, Introduced Birds and Possibilities
Purple Martin
Hirondelle noire
Progne subis
Life, Habitat & Pictures of the Purple Martin
| B L | W W | W | Family | Latin Name |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8" 20.3cm | 18" 45.7cm | 2 oz 56.7g | Hirundinidae | Progne subis |
- Breeding
- Year Around
- Winter
The Purple Martin is the largest member of the swallow family. These fast-flying birds feed by catching insects on the wing. The martins nest in large colonies in multi-story birdhouses that have many compartments. These seem to be the only bird species in North America that depend on birdhouses to build their nest in and raise their young. These martins are seen throughout the Caribbean islands during the winter months and have been seen as migrants in Cuba.