Purple Martins at Iona Island

Purple Martins on Iona Island showcase a remarkable conservation comeback in the Vancouver and Lower Mainland region. After decades of decline from habitat loss and nest competition, targeted stewardship reversed their disappearance. Carefully maintained nesting boxes on Iona Island provide safe breeding sites near productive coastal foraging areas. Additional nesting boxes now support Purple Martins at Boundary Bay, Sea Island, and Reifel Bird Sanctuary. These artificial colonies are monitored annually to improve breeding success and population growth. The Purple Martin recovery demonstrates how focused habitat management can restore sensitive bird species in urbanized landscapes. See one this summer.