We are pleased to announce the installation of a new Purple Martin interpretive sign along the Chelem Trail in the Squamish Estuary. This addition aims to educate visitors about these remarkable migratory birds and highlight the important conservation efforts taking place locally.
How to Find
The sign is situated approximately 150 meters from the two Purple Martin nest box structures on the well-traveled Chelem Trail, in the Squamish Estuary. This location offers excellent visibility of the nesting boxes, allowing visitors to learn more about the birds while enjoying the trail.
A link to the Google Map Coordinates can be found here.
We also respectfully acknowledge that this project takes place on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation, whose stewardship of these lands and waters continues to this day.
Sign Features
The interpretive panel provides clear and engaging information for visitors of all ages, including:
- Purple Martin biology: physical characteristics, migration patterns, and nesting behaviors
- The history of Purple Martins in Squamish, BC, covering population challenges and restoration efforts
- An overview of the local nest box initiative supported by dedicated volunteers and community members
Acknowledging Our Team
We extend sincere thanks to everyone who contributed to this project, particularly John Buchanan, our project lead, whose dedication and leadership were vital to the project’s success.
This interpretive sign is more than just information; it’s a celebration of a community coming together to bring these incredible birds back from the edge of extinction. Now, every person walking this trail can become part of that story and understand the difference we can make when we care for our local wildlife.
— John Buchanan, Project Facilitator, Purple Martin Nest Box Project
Recognition of Our Funders
This project was made possible through the generous support of our funders. We especially thank Seaspan for their important contribution to the Purple Martin Nest Box Monitoring Project. Their support has been essential in the construction of the two PUMA nest box structures, expanding educational outreach and ongoing monitoring efforts.
Seaspan’s commitment to environmental stewardship aligns closely with the objectives of the Nature Squamish and the Ministry of Water, Lands and Resource Stewardship. Their logos are prominently displayed on the new sign as a symbol of this partnership.
At Seaspan, supporting conservation initiatives is fundamental to our commitment to environmental stewardship. By creating safe nesting habitats for purple martins, we’re helping their population recover while sharing the opportunity for our community to learn and enjoy these remarkable birds.
— Daryl Lawes, Senior Environmental Manager, Seaspan
Current Project Activities
Fledging Season: Most of the chicks have now fledged (left the nest) as they grow more independent. This is a key transition period in their development, preparing them for the long journey back to South America for the winter. The purple martin colony is expected to start making its way south along the Pacific Flyway in the upcoming weeks. Make sure to catch them before they do!
Nest Box Monitoring: We’re actively reviewing this season’s nest box footage to analyze behavior, nesting success, and chick activity.
Data Compilation and Reporting: Observations collected throughout the season are being compiled into reports to support research, guide future monitoring, and contribute to long-term conservation planning. If you are interested in being a volunteer to review footage, please contact ddube@naturesquamish.ca
Research Update: Engineering a Better Home for Purple Martins
Did you know the temperature inside a nest box can critically affect the health of baby birds? Our team has launched a two-year study to compare the temperatures in natural tree cavities against those in man-made nest boxes.
Our goal is to perfect the design of our nest boxes to better shield purple martin chicks from the increasingly warm temperatures they face during nesting season. We are currently putting four new prototype designs and the existing designs to the test! Stay tuned for preliminary results at the end of this year, with a final, improved design expected in 2027.
We encourage visitors to explore the Chelem Trail, view the interpretive sign, and enjoy the natural beauty of the Squamish Estuary. This project is a great example of what can be accomplished when community members and partners work together to protect local wildlife.
How You Can Get Involved
If you are interested in learning more or contributing, here are some ways to support the Purple Martin project and other local conservation initiatives:
- Follow the Nature Squamish on Instagram and Facebook for project updates, news and events
- Learn more about volunteering with us
- Consider making a donation to support ongoing habitat restoration and monitoring
Together, we can make a meaningful difference for Purple Martins and the environment we share!
Header photo: John Buchanan. Inset photo: Tara Johnson