Houston Audubon is hosting two Purple Martin Watch Parties, on August 9 and 23, at the Old Navy parking lot in The Fountains shopping center in Stafford at U.S. 59 and Kirkwood. Both watch patties begin at 8:15 p.m.
“Graceful in flight, the Purple Martin, the largest of North America’s swallows, is one of Houston’s most popular birds. In late summer, after leaving the nesting colony with fledglings in tow, Purple Martins gather daily in large flocks to feed, socialize, and roost before migrating. The Houston metro area is lucky to have Purple Martin roosts, with some areas witnessing up to 500,000 birds. From July to September, large flocks cover the sky at dusk in a dark cloud as they fly into the trees to roost, this spectacle lasting about 45 minutes,” according to the organization.
“At Houston Audubon’s Purple Martin Watch Parties, the community gathers to witness the wonder of Purple Martin flying patterns as they come together to roost every night. During the parties, Houston Audubon staff and volunteers are on hand to educate attendees about Purple Martins, their amazing journey, and how people can help protect these birds. These free, family-friendly events are fun for all ages.”…