Common Grackle

The Common Grackle is a large, glossy blackbird common across much of central and eastern North America, often seen foraging in noisy flocks on lawns and farmland. Its long tail and iridescent sheen distinguish it from smaller blackbirds.

Two main regional forms exist, differing in the color of their iridescence: a bronze sheen across much of the Midwest and East, and a purple-to-blue sheen in some eastern coastal populations, sometimes called the "Purple Grackle" form.

Its feathers are notable for the long, wedge-shaped or keel-like tail, which the bird holds in a distinctive downward V-shaped trough in flight, along with a bright pale eye.

Size and Shape

Long, wedge or keel-shaped tail feathers are the most distinctive structural feature, longer and more strongly graduated than in most other blackbirds.

Color and Pattern

• Body feathers are glossy black with iridescent sheen, ranging from bronze to purple or blue-green depending on regional form and lighting.
• The eye is pale yellow, a helpful clue when found alongside feathers or in partial remains.

Comparisons

Compared to the Brown-headed Cowbird, Common Grackle feathers are considerably larger with a longer, keel-shaped tail. Compared to crows or ravens, grackle feathers are much smaller and show iridescent sheen, which crow and raven feathers largely lack.

Sexes look similar, though females are slightly smaller and somewhat duller than males. Juveniles are brown and lack iridescence, gradually acquiring adult coloring. One complete molt occurs annually after breeding.

Common Grackles are widespread across central and eastern North America in open woodlands, farmland, and suburban areas. Northern populations migrate south for winter, while southern populations tend to be resident, and huge flocks form during migration and winter.

This species is an opportunistic omnivore, eating seeds, insects, and occasionally eggs or discarded food, and often forms large, noisy flocks, especially outside the breeding season. Its call is a harsh, rasping "chak." It nests colonially, often in conifers. A long, iridescent black feather with a keel-shaped profile is a strong match for this common species.