Estimate of Purple Martins Present: 50,000

Species Composition: Almost all are Purple Martins with some starlings present

Description of Roost's Location: This site is located on Gateway Blvd just off of 41st street and just west of I29. Between Perkins and Days Inn.

Public Access to Roost?: Yes

History of Roost: My brothers and I know that this site was active for the last two years for sure, if possible more years. 2006 appeared to have many more than in 2005.

Description of Roost's Habitat: This Blvd is lined with large trees which have street lights amoung the trees. All of the martins roost in the upper leaf parts of the trees.

Roost Begins Approximately: Late-July

Roost Ends Approximately: Early-September

Threats to/Problems with Roost: This year I was very alarmed when I arrived in late August to view the site and noticed about 12 of the large trees in front of Days Inn were cut down. I questioned some of the employees and they said that the trees were cut down because of the birds. Some of the trees were thinned out to discourage the birds from using the trees. Some people thought the birds killed the trees. Some people thought the martins were bats. There is also some concerns for safety or health.

Opportunities at Roost: Yes, especially with the Outdoor Campus with the City of Sioux Falls.