Posted by Ann Swirczynski on July 29, 2007

Q: We have, what we believe, are a variety of swallows building nests under the overhangs or our front and back porches. While we love to watch them fly in and out, feeding the babies, and gobbling up the insects, they are causing quite a mess on the porches. They also seem to be breeding non-stop this summer and the kids come back home to visit.

We thought at first they might be Purple Martins, but from my limited research, they are probably barn swallows. We would like to provide them with an alternate nesting site. Would they use a Purple Martin house? If so, where would be the best place to locate it? As soon as the last nursery empties, we plan to remove the nests and set up a barrier prohibiting new construction. Suggestions please.

Thank you!

State: Texas

A: Sounds to me that you're ID of Barn Swallow is correct. Purple Martins do not have the rich browns on their bodies nor do they have a forked tail - does that help? Barn Swallows are not going to use the Martin house, I'm afraid - it doesn't meet their nest-site requirements. Sounds like your plan to clean up the porch and restrict next year's nest-building is a reasonable one. I realize that these birds can be quite messy but also that they really are interesting to watch and do help keep insect populations down. If I were you I'd gladly put up with the mess and simply hose down the porches after they leave but I understand you eagerness to have "your porches back". Do keep in mind that if they "liked" the porch sites this year, they'll return and want to renest there next year too so be prepared. Thanks for asking.

John Wiessinger ( July 30, 2007)