Purple martins used to have nearly statewide distribution but their range has retracted over time. The 2018-2022 Maine Bird Atlas confirmed breeding in only 9 small areas of central and southern Maine.

There are now less than 10 colonies in Maine, comprising only about 150 adults. This concerningly low number represents a dramatic 95% population decline in the last 50 years. The good news is you can help by becoming a purple martin landlord!

Providing martin housing is a relatively easy conservation action that individuals and organizations can take to prevent the extirpation of purple martins in Maine. It's a way to contribute to wildlife conservation in your own backyard, or team up with your school group, scout troop, land trust, or birding club to make a difference!

It is currently unknown how far this species will travel to establish a new colony, but houses set up in or near towns with existing colonies will likely have the most luck attracting purple martins.

Based on data from the 2018-2022 Maine Bird Atlas, those living in or near Corinna, Belgrade, Kennebunk, Thorndike, Unity, Porter, Denmark, Pittsfield, or Frenchboro are in an excellent position to help!