Common grackle Quiscalus quiscula

Identification Tips:

• Length: 10-12 inches
• Very long tail
• Long bill
• Frequently gathers in large flocks

Adult:

• Entirely black plumage
• Entirely purple or purple and greenish iridiscence to plumage
• Pale eye

Juvenile:

• Dark eye
• Dark brown plumage

Similar species:

The Common Grackle is similar to blackbirds but is larger with a much longer tail. Male Great-tailed and Boat-tailed Grackles are similar but larger with longer tails.

Length and wingspan from: Robbins, C.S., Bruun, B., Zim, H.S., (1966). Birds of North America. New York: Western Publishing Company, Inc.