Purple Martin Houses & Gourds

Purple martins are North America's largest swallows — and east of the Rockies, they nest almost exclusively in housing that people provide. Hosting a martin colony is one of birding's most rewarding projects: a single setup can support a dozen or more families that return to your yard year after year.

👉 New to martins? Read our guide to the best purple martin houses and gourds in 2026 — 8 ranked picks, plus the entrance-hole spec that decides whether martins or starlings move in.

Houses vs. Gourds: Which Should You Choose?

• Martin houses: Classic multi-room "apartment" designs in aluminum or wood — easy to monitor, with 4 to 24 rooms per house
• Gourds: Research shows martins often prefer gourds — roomier compartments, better rain protection, and less competition between pairs
• Gourd racks: Purpose-built poles holding 8–12 gourds, the setup most serious martin landlords use

Setting Up for Success

• Location: The most open spot in your yard — 40–60 feet from trees and buildings, with clear flyways
• Height: 12–18 feet, on a telescoping or winch pole so you can lower the housing for weekly nest checks
• Entrances: Starling-resistant (SREH/crescent) entrance holes keep invasive starlings out while letting martins in
• Predator guards: A pole guard stops raccoons, snakes, and squirrels from reaching the colony
• Timing: Scouts arrive as early as late January in the South and through April in the North — have housing up before they return

Shop our full range of purple martin houses, gourds, gourd racks, telescoping poles, and colony accessories — everything you need to become a martin landlord. Not sure where to start? Start with the guide.