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Purple Martins are on Lake Murray (Page 107)

Each summer, the skies over Bomb Island on Lake Murray come to life as the Purple Martins arrive for their annual vacation. It is estimated that more than one million birds venture north for the summer, roosting on the island and providing spectators with a rare glimpse of one of nature’s true phenomena. This sanctuary serves as a layover for the birds on their long journey to their winter home in South America, making it the largest roosting site in North America.

The best time to view this spectacular event is from late June through early August, with the number of birds peaking in mid to late July. The Purple Martins are visible at two times during the day – in the morning and evening. When the birds leave in the morning, it is described as an explosion of activity, so much so that local weather radar has noted the image is larger than Hurricane Hugo was in 1989.

For those wishing to witness this phenomenon, a boat is the best way to view the event on Bomb Island. Boats can be rented around Lake Murray, or you can charter a personal tour. Most tours last about two hours, and riders are encouraged to bring their own beverages and snacks. Here are some options for tours:

Captain Zach Steinhauser

  • Wingard’s Market – 1403 N. Lake Drive, Lexington
  • 803-359-9091
  • carolinasafarico.com/lake-murray-purple-martin-tours
  • [email protected]

Captain Kenny Hardee

  • Pontoon Rentals & Tours – 220 Jakes Landing Road, Lexington
  • 803-530-3713
  • lake-murray-boat-rentals.com

Captain Rick Crout

  • Captain Hook’s Lake Murray Tours
  • 803-603-1142
  • captainhookstours.com
  • [email protected]

Captain Dale Gossett

  • Lake Murray Island Tours
  • 803-318-3911
  • lakemurrayislandtours.com
  • [email protected]

Captain Ben Stickney

  • Pilot Cove Ventures – Sailboat and PowerBoat Tours
  • 803-969-0105
  • pilotcoveventures.com
  • [email protected]

Spirit of Lake Murray – Purple Martin Cruises

  • Spirit of Lake Murray
  • 803-250-5497
  • spiritoflakemurray.com
  • [email protected]

Don't miss this opportunity to experience one of nature's most impressive spectacles on Lake Murray this summer.

Photo Credit: Captain Zach Staeinhauser

Purple Martins are on Lake Murray

2024-07-17
By: John
On: July 17, 2024
In: Events

Each summer, the skies over Bomb Island on Lake Murray come to life as the Purple Martins arrive for their annual vacation. It is estimatedContinue Reading

Family roots run deep

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On: July 17, 2024
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By Kelly Eckstrom I’ve heard it said that “families are forever.” Whenever people reflect on their family’s history, it’s common for them to focus onContinue Reading

New sewer and water usage rates in Richland County

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At Forum, Residents Give Views on Transportation

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By: John
On: July 17, 2024
In: Community News, Government

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On: July 17, 2024
In: Health

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Columbia hosts a delegation from Ghana

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By: John
On: July 17, 2024
In: Community News, Government

Columbia officials met with a delegation from the Republic of Ghana July 11 to build upon the sisterly relations that exist between Ghana and SouthContinue Reading

Now That’s a REALLY Big Fish…

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By: John
On: July 16, 2024
In: Sports

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Local Author Pens Riveting Historical Novel

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By: John
On: July 15, 2024
In: Entertainment

Local author Arthur M. James has created a compelling and panoramic view of World War II in his latest work, Untertauchen: A Historical Novel. ThisContinue Reading

Local Fisherman Catches a Whopper in Irmo Pond

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By: John
On: July 15, 2024
In: Sports

Local resident John Walker of Irmo recently made quite the splash when he reeled in a massive catch from a local pond. Using red wormsContinue Reading

Wild Summer Nights Online Auction Kicks Off July 19

2024-07-10
By: John
On: July 10, 2024
In: Events

The South Carolina Wildlife Federation’s (SCWF) highly anticipated three-day online auction, Wild Summer Nights, starts on July 19. Participants can place their bids by visitingContinue Reading

Plishing Challenge Returns to South Carolina This Summer

2024-07-10
By: John
On: July 10, 2024
In: Events

Grab your rod and reel, cane pole, or fly rod and a bag to pick up litter—it’s time to go Plishing! The South Carolina WildlifeContinue Reading

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