Watercolor portrait of Purple Martin (Progne subis)

Purple Martin

Progne subis
Breeds across most of the United States… Open country near water, towns, farmland… Common Gurgling Dawn Song

Learn to identify the Purple Martin by ear. Master the "prrt-prrt-chu-gheer gheer" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“prrt-prrt-chu-gheer gheer”

What the Purple Martin sounds like

The Purple Martin is North America's largest swallow, renowned for its graceful flight and glossy plumage. Adult males shimmer with an almost iridescent blue-black that appears deep violet in sunlight, while females and immatures show a softer mix of gray and dusky purple. Highly social, they nest in colonies, often in human-supplied martin houses that have made them a backyard favorite across much of eastern North America.

“prrt-prrt-chu-gheer gheer”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:Soft, throaty gurgles and chirrs delivered in series, most loudly at sunrise when males circle their colony. Often written as “prrt-prrt-chu-gheer gheer”.
Don't confuse with:The Tree Swallow — smaller size and slimmer build

Where you'll hear it

Open country near water, towns, farmland and wetlands—anywhere with broad aerial foraging space and suitable nesting cavities or multi-compartment martin houses.

Arrives in breeding areas from late February (south) through May (north). Fledglings depart colonies by late July, and most birds are en route to South America by early September.

Similar species

Tree Swallow

Smaller size and slimmer build

Barn Swallow

Longer, deeper forked tail with streamers

Bank Swallow

Much smaller, brown above, white below with brown breast band

Purple Martin song FAQ

What does a Purple Martin sound like?
Soft, throaty gurgles and chirrs delivered in series, most loudly at sunrise when males circle their colony. Listen for the "prrt-prrt-chu-gheer gheer" phrase.
How do I tell a Purple Martin from a Tree Swallow by sound?
Tree Swallow: Smaller size and slimmer build; White entire underparts vs. martin’s dusky belly (males) or partial gray (females); More pronounced fork in tail.
When is the best time to hear a Purple Martin?
Arrives in breeding areas from late February (south) through May (north). Fledglings depart colonies by late July, and most birds are en route to South America by early September.