Common grackle

The common grackle is a medium-sized blackbird native to eastern North America.

The common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula) is a medium-sized blackbird native to eastern North America. It is known for its iridescent dark plumage, pale yellow eyes, long tail, and highly adaptable behaviour. In Canada, the species breeds in central regions and is a familiar bird to Canadian birdwatchers and urban residents.

Description

Common grackles are medium-sized blackbirds with iridescent plumage that can appear purple, blue, bronze, or green in the light. They have a long tail, long legs, yellow eyes, and a tapered bill. Adults typically measure about 28–34 cm in length.

Distribution and habitat

The species occurs widely across eastern North America, with breeding and year-round ranges extending through much of the region. It uses a broad range of habitats, including wetlands, open woodlands, agricultural land, suburbs, parks, and forest edges. The common grackle is especially common east of the Rocky Mountains.

Behaviour and diet

Common grackles are social birds that often forage in groups and form large flocks, especially outside the breeding season. They are opportunistic omnivores that feed on seeds, grain, insects, garbage, and various small animals. They often gather in noisy flocks and may roost communally in trees or on power lines.

Taxonomy

The common grackle is classified as Quiscalus quiscula in the family Icteridae. It is a polytypic species with three recognized subspecies. The species was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1758.