Common Grackle
Quiscalus quiscula · New World Blackbirds, Troupials, and Allies
The Common Grackle is a familiar and widespread blackbird across much of North America, recognized by its lanky build and iridescent plumage. These adaptable birds are often seen walking with deliberate steps in open areas or gathering in noisy flocks. Their glossy feathers shimmer with various hues depending on the light and geographic location.
Explore the full field guideResident/MigratoryMedium-large sizeHarsh callsOmnivorous diet
2 calls·first heard Jul 8·last 92d ago
When it's heardpeak 5a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Glossy black overall with iridescent purplish-blue or bluish-green on the head, neck, and breast, contrasting with a bronzy body in some regions. Features a long, tapered bill and pale yellow eyes.
- Similar to the male but generally smaller and less glossy, with a shorter tail that does not typically keel in flight.
- Primarily brown plumage with dark brown eyes, lacking the iridescence of adults.
- Long, graduated tail that often appears keeled (folded down the middle into a shallow V shape) in flight, particularly in males.