Great-tailed Grackle
Quiscalus mexicanus · New World Blackbirds, Troupials, and Allies
The Great-tailed Grackle is a conspicuous and adaptable blackbird, known for its striking appearance and vocalizations. Males are notably larger than females, displaying iridescent black plumage and a long, distinctive tail. This species thrives in diverse open and semi-open habitats, often in close proximity to human activity.
Explore the full field guideResident, expanding rangeLarge sizeVaried, noisy voiceOmnivorous diet
16 calls·first heard Jul 2·last 3d ago
When it's heardpeak 5a · fall
5a12p9p
How to know it
- Glossy iridescent black with purple, blue, or green sheen, a very long keel-shaped tail, and bright yellow eyes.
- Smaller than males, with dark brown upperparts, paler buff to grayish-brown underparts, and yellow eyes.
- The male's long tail is often held in a distinctive V or keel shape, especially in flight.
- Resembles the adult female but has streaked underparts and dark eyes.