Purple Martin Conservation Initiative

Just when we thought the season was winding down, we discovered several new Purple Martin nests with eggs and newly hatched chicks—an unusual occurrence this late in the season here in Louisiana.

These late nests also provided an exciting opportunity to work with Dr. Erik Johnson to deploy four additional geolocators on adult Purple Martins, helping us learn more about their incredible migration between North and South America.

All banding and geolocator work is conducted under the appropriate federal permits and authorizations.

Sometimes the martins have one more surprise in store!

Enjoyed our morning at MSA West Elementary photographing the Purple Martins. To our surprise, there are still many at the site. Two active nests with chicks which still have a few weeks to go.

Across Louisiana, many communities have experienced days of heavy rainfall, rising waters, and flooding. Our thoughts are with those impacted and of the wildlife sharing these conditions.

Purple Martins are remarkably resilient, but prolonged periods of rain can make it difficult for them to find the flying insects they depend on. As the weather continues to challenge both people and wildlife, we're hoping for clearer skies and safer conditions for everyone.

The season is beginning to wind down…

Each day, we see fewer Purple Martins at our colonies as more young birds take flight and begin preparing for their incredible journey to South America.

It’s always bittersweet this time of year—celebrating a successful nesting season while knowing our sweet residents will soon be heading south. Safe travels. We’ll be waiting for your return next spring.

We're looking forward to meeting with a new school this morning to discuss bringing our Birding for Kids program to their campus!

Through hands-on activities, bird walks, guest speakers, and citizen science projects, students learn about Purple Martins, other native birds, and the important role they play in our environment.

We're excited about the possibility of welcoming another school to the PMCI family and expanding opportunities for students to connect with nature through birding and conservation.

Photos from one of our 2025 school partnerships.

A new week brings new opportunities to learn, grow, and appreciate the beauty of nature around us. Wishing everyone a wonderful Monday and a happy, productive week ahead!

🇺🇸 Happy Flag Day! 🇺🇸

Today we celebrate the Stars and Stripes—an enduring symbol of freedom, unity, and our nation’s history.

We've created a new T-shirt design. Several colors and sizes available. All proceeds benefit PMCI's mission of helping Purple Martins through education and conservation.

New 2026 PMCI Tee | Bonfire Buy New 2026 PMCI Tee merchandise that supports Purple Martin Conservation Initiative. Featuring Athletic Heather Premium Unisex Tees, professionally printed in the USA.