Purple Martins

This is just a small part of the large, condominium-style birdhouse that a family built and placed in their garden, east of the city. I was out south and east of the city with a friend for a good part of today and was thrilled to see some of these beautiful birds for the very first time. I had seen and heard reports of Purple Martins being seen, so it was a thrill to finally see some ourselves. The lady to whom this birdhouse belongs was so kind and welcoming to us, which we appreciated greatly. These birds are uncommon in Alberta (May to August). They live in colonies in these fancy birdhouses (will post a photo showing the whole birdhouse another time).