Purple Martin Phenomenon

At night, the Purple Martins take flight! Each summer, the skies over Bomb Island on Lake Murray come to life as the Purple Martins arrive for their summer vacation in what’s known as the Purple Martin Phenomenon. It’s estimated that over one million birds venture north for the summer to roost on the island, giving spectators a rare look at one of nature’s true phenomenons. Bomb Island is the largest Purple Martin roosting site in North America and provides the perfect place for the birds to rest and prepare for their journey back to South America for the winter. Every day at dawn and dusk, millions of these birds take flight during this natural phenomenon.

When is the best time of year to see Purple Martins?
The best time to see the Purple Martin Phenomenon is from late June through early August, with the highest number of birds appearing from mid-to-late July. You can catch the birds at two key times each day—early in the morning and at dusk. Local weather forecasters have reported that the bird’s morning migration is so large, that its radar image is larger than Hurricane Hugo!

Where does this phenomenon take place?
This one-of-a-kind birding event happens at Bomb Island, located on beautiful Lake Murray in South Carolina.

How can you see the birds?
The best way to see the Purple Martin Phenomenon is by boat!