Can you believe how many birds there are? Unbelievably, these are Purple Martins gathering as they prepare to migrate south to the rainforests of Brazil for winter.

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This happened in Akron, Ohio at the Nimisila Reservoir at the end of August. I was AMAZED at this incredible wildlife event and the fact it happens every year remarkably close to my home.

In the middle of this large lake, there is a patch of isolated reeds. Towards the end of August each year, thousands and thousands of Purple Martins gather here, which are a type of swallow, before starting their migration south to Brazil, where they spend the winter in the rainforest.

This exact spot is such a wonderful place for the Purple Martins because of its location. The reeds are surrounded by water, so it keeps all the roosting birds safe from predators, such as foxes and raccoons!

As you can see, the only way to get out there is to watch is to paddle out in a kayak at sunset. Once you get out to the reeds, it is time to wait for the show.

At first, it’s just a few Purple Martins flying around in the sky. But as we wait, more and more keep joining from all directions. In fact, almost every Purple Martin within a 20-mile radius comes to this exact spot to meet up before migrating.

As the evening progresses, the number of birds in the sky takes your breath away.

Once enough birds show up, they start creating a vortex of Purple Martins. Flying in giant circles as they get closer and closer to the reeds before flying into the sky again. There are so many birds that it is quite loud!

Local naturalists estimate that there are around 10,000 Purple Martins in the sky at once!

There are so many birds, some local birders use weather radar to monitor the Purple Martin flock. It shows the numbers at Nimisila growing steadily throughout August. Then, without warning, in early September all the birds leave together to start heading to South America.

Have you ever seen a wildlife event or spectacle like this?

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