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How to Install a Purple Martin House

A large number of Americans try to attract purple martins by supplying them with housing. These large swallows rely solely on human-built housing in parts of their summer habitats. Although the task of installing a bird house may seem simple, purple martins tend to be very particular in their housing choices, specifically the location of the martin house. Once a breeding pair has used the martin house, however, they are extremely likely to return year after year.

Things You'll Need

Purple martin house
Pole 10 to 20 feet

Instructions

Installation
- 1
  Choose an area of your property at least 30 feet from your home. There should be no trees taller than your purple martin house within 40 to 60 feet of the martin house.
- 2
  Place the purple martin house on your pole. Install a metal plate or plank to support the house, or drill a hole for the pole going from the floor of the house to the peak of the roof. The method of placement on the pole depends solely on the style of martin house you possess.
- 3
  Install the pole into the ground. The length the pole must be in the ground depends on the height of the pole. For instance, a 10-foot pole requires approximately 2 feet in the ground.
- 4
  Pour concrete around the pole for extra support if the location will be permanent. You can also pour crushed rocks or pebbles into the hole for support.

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