An introduction to Mr. and Mrs Martin (2 images).
For a few weeks, the Purple Martins, from their nearby condo, have been gathering nesting materials (mud, twigs,straw etc) from the wet exposed shoreline of a pond at A.H.P.. Usually Mr. Martin simply rides shotgun and doesn't get his beak dirty, whereas Mrs. Martin digs right in and scoops up the wet mud. Occasionally, Mr martin will, however, pick up some dry material as in this top photo.
Top Photo: Mr Martin helping with the gathering of nesting materials appears ready for takeoff.
Mrs. Martin, hard at work and carrying a big stick, appears to be clowning around.