Great-tailed Grackle
Classification: Family Icteridae (New World Blackbirds)
Brief Description
A medium-sized, highly social bird known for its long, keel-shaped tail and vocal nature, often found in urban areas and near water sources.
Additional Information
- Region of Origin: North and Central America
- Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in southern regions; summer in northern breeding grounds
- Plumage Details: Females (pictured) appear brownish and smaller than males, featuring a pale throat and cinnamon-buff undersides with dark brown wings and tail. Males are larger and iridescence black with a violet-blue sheen.
- Ecological Significance: Acts as an opportunistic scavenger and predator, helping to control insect populations and dispersing seeds in various habitats.
- Conservation Status: Least Concern
- Observation Tips: Look for them in parking lots, city parks, and agricultural fields; they are very vocal and can easily be spotted by their distinctive, varied calls and bold behavior.