Would you like to learn more about Purple Martins? What about learning how to become a Purple Martin landlord by setting up a colony in your backyard or community? Are you an existing landlord wanting to meet other Purple Martin enthusiasts and learn tips? Have you always wanted to be a citizen scientist, gathering useful data that helps conservation efforts? Are you interested in joining volunteers of all ages in making a positive impact in your community? Do you enjoy birdwatching? Are you a bird nerd? If so, this workshop is for you!

This introductory workshop will focus on the life cycle of Purple Martins, their unique relationship with people and how you can participate in conservation efforts as a Purple Martin landlord, helper or observer. You will learn about the maintenance routine recommended by the Purple Martin Conservation Association and be invited to participate in future workshops during the January to July breeding season where we will go outside to do hands-on nest preparations and discussion at some of our ambassador locations in Palm Beach County. You will learn how to record nesting data that is compiled nationally and share in the excitement of babies fledging for the first time.

What You’ll Learn:

– The life cycle and behavior of Purple Martins

– How to set up and maintain a Purple Martin colony

– Tips from the Purple Martin Conservation Association for effective nest management

– How to contribute to national conservation efforts by recording and sharing nesting data

Workshop Highlights:

– Meet Shelly Rozenberg, Purple Martin Conservation Lead for Audubon Everglades, and learn from her extensive experience. Shelly, affectionately known as the “Purple Martin Queen,” is a dedicated volunteer and educator supporting conservation programs across Palm Beach County.

– Discover the excitement of birdwatching and the joy of witnessing Purple Martin chicks fledge for the first time.

– Get involved in future workshops during the breeding season (January to July) with hands-on nest preparation and discussions at our ambassador locations in Palm Beach County.

Why Purple Martins?

Purple Martins are North America’s largest swallows and are cherished for their melodious songs, social behavior, and aerial acrobatics. Historically, humans have provided housing for these songbirds, and today, they rely entirely on human stewardship for their survival.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn about these remarkable birds and how you can make a difference in their conservation. We look forward to seeing you there and sharing the excitement of Purple Martin conservation with you!

About Shelly Rozenberg

Shelly, a dedicated wildlife photographer and nature enthusiast, is passionate about the conservation of local bird species, particularly social birds like the Purple Martin and Florida Scrub-Jay. As the Purple Martin Conservation Coordinator for Audubon Everglades, Shelly provides public education, community outreach, and support to Purple Martin enthusiasts throughout Palm Beach County. She has established partnerships with 12 ambassador locations, including Wakodahatchee Wetlands, Green Cay Nature Center, and Busch Wildlife Sanctuary, among others. These collaborations aim to reverse the declining population of Purple Martins by creating suitable breeding habitats. Shelly’s work has been recognized, with her photos featured on the cover of the Purple Martin Conservation Association’s “Update” magazine.

In addition to her efforts with Purple Martins, Shelly is also involved in Audubon Florida’s Jay Watch citizen science program, where her photographs of the Florida Scrub-Jay have been featured on several covers of Audubon Florida’s Annual Scrub-Jay Report and other publications. Despite working full-time for a surgeon, Shelly volunteers with Palm Beach County Parks and Recreation, mentoring teens and leading bird walks at Okeeheelee Nature Center. Her dedication to bird conservation and education makes her a valuable asset to her community and the local environment.