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Common Grackle

Quiscalus quiscula

Description:

The 32 cm (13 in) long adult has a long dark bill, pale yellowish eyes and a long tail; its feathers appear black with purple, green or blue iridescence on the head, and primarily bronze shine in the body plumage. The adult female is smaller and usually less iridescent; her tail in particular is shorter, and unlike the males, does not keel in flight and is brown with no purple or blue gloss. The juvenile is brown with dark brown eyes.

Habitat:

The breeding habitat is open and semi-open areas across North America east of the Rocky Mountains. The nest is a well-concealed cup in dense trees (particularly pine) or shrubs, usually near water; sometimes, the Common Grackle will nest in cavities or in man-made structures. It often nests in colonies, some being quite large. Bird houses are also a suitable nesting site. There are 4-7 eggs. This bird is a permanent resident in much of its range. Northern birds migrate in flocks to the southeastern United States.

Notes:

I loves his eyes, he contrasts well on their black plumage ;)

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LucBertrand
Spotted by
LucBertrand

Montréal, Québec, Canada

Spotted on Mar 18, 2012
Submitted on Mar 18, 2012

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