As July evenings come, Purple Martins gather from around Austin to this large roost site on the west side of Highland Mall.
Viewed: 1413 times.
|
We don't know if these were raised in Austin or farther North.
Viewed: 1202 times.
|
They will spend most of July here, but sometime in August, they will all head to South America for the winter.
Viewed: 1130 times.
|
As dusk thickens, so do the Martins.
Viewed: 1123 times.
|
At first they circle around...
Viewed: 1065 times.
|
but eventually, they descend and start landing on the treetops of just a few select Live Oaks.
Viewed: 1127 times.
|
The noise is quite astounding.
Viewed: 1160 times.
|
|
|
|
|
Some roost on the iron structure, but most will leave to spend the night in the trees.
Viewed: 1243 times.
|
|
It's tough to photograph them in the trees, but you can get some idea of how dense they are.
Viewed: 1358 times.
|
They all clamor for the top spots (leaving the lower branches completely empty).
Viewed: 1232 times.
|
Map of the Highland Mall Roost, showing both roost areas.
Viewed: 1241 times.
|
