What initially began as a pest control resolution in Portage Lakes soon turned into a community
project.
In 2000, people in Portage Lakes decided to build houses for Purple Martins in hope of reducing the insect populations. The birds were counted on to target insects that had been plaguing the region and causing people to use multiple cans of insect repellent.
Following the introduction of the Purple Martins, the insect population has drastically decreased, allowing people to fish without worrying about the incessant bugs.
“We like to say that they are cropping our excess bug population,” said Larry Hunter, the chief advisor of the Portage Lakes Purple Martin Association. “Hopefully we can get all of the insects and birds in balance.”
The birds, along with Tree Swallows and Barn Swallows, have effectively decreased the number of house flies, horse flies, Japanese Beetles, and mosquitoes. According to Hunter, it is suspected that the Purple Martins devour the larger insects, leaving the smaller insects for other birds.
Since the fall of 2000, the number of Purple Martins has greatly increased in the Portage Lakes area. Many volunteers and Boy Scout troops have contributed by erecting houses for the birds and by helping feed the babies. This year about 500 babies are expected.
The fondness for the birds has even led to a Purple Martin Day, founded in 2001, and a Buckeye Martinfest, which was founded in 2008. The Martinfest moves around Ohio each year in order to encourage people to visit. This year it was held in Portage Lakes.
“We are always looking for new members,” said Hunter. “It's been amazing to have started so small nine years ago and be so big today – it's just remarkable.”
More information can be found at The Portage Lakes Purple Martin Association's Web site,
members.tripod.com/sassyoh_4/portagelakespurplemartins.
