COMMON GRACKLE (Quiscalus quiscula) Go back to Blackbirds
Identification
An iridescent blackbird larger than a robin, the common grackle has a long keel-shaped tail. The male, slightly larger than the female, has more iridescence on the head and throat.
Range and Habitat
A common nester throughout North America east of the Rockies, the common grackle nests in shelterbelts, farmyards, marshes, and towns. Flocks feed in fields, lawns, woodlots, and bottomlands. These birds winter in the southern United States, often in association with redwings, cowbirds, and starlings.
Food Habits and General Biology
The common grackle’s diet is somewhat similar to that of the redwing, but the grackle is more predatory. Its diet occasionally includes small fish, field mice, songbird nestlings, and eggs. Grackles have a larger, stronger bill than redwings, allowing them to feed on acorns and other tree fruits in winter. The common grackle (Quiscalus quiscula) is an iridescent blackbird, larger than a robin, with a long, keel-shaped tail. Grackles often roost with redwings, but are more partial to roosting sites in upland deciduous or pine trees. Reproductive and survival rates are similar to redwings.
Damage to Crops
Damage is similar to that of redwings; however, grackles will feed on mature field corn in the dent stage, removing entire kernels from the cob. Also, grackles will pull up sprouting corn.
Learn More About:
RED-WINGED BLACKBIRD
GREAT-TAILED GRACKLE
BROWN-HEADED COWBIRD
YELLOW-HEADED BLACKBIRD
BREWER'S BLACKBIRD
RUSTY BLACKBIRD
Economics of Damage and Control
Please read more about us and our bird removal services . You can also learn about Cowleys history and understand why to choose Cowleys for bird exclusion. You can read about what physical or visual bird deterrents are used and what to do if nuisance birds are taking over your business.
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