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Common Grackle

Quiscalus quiscula

Description:

Adult common grackles measures from 28 to 34 cm (11 to 13 in) in length, span 36–46 cm (14–18 in) across the wings and weigh 74–142 g (2.6–5.0 oz).[1] Common grackles are less sexually dimorphic than larger grackle species but the differences between the sexes can still be noticeable. The male, which averages 122 g (4.3 oz), is larger than the female, at an average of 94 g (3.3 oz).[2] 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, beyond being smaller, is 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.

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3 Comments

LucBertrand
LucBertrand 11 years ago

thank you very much friends :D

rutasandinas
rutasandinas 11 years ago

Sensacional!!

Isabela
Isabela 11 years ago

Excellent second photo!

LucBertrand
Spotted by
LucBertrand

Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada

Spotted on Apr 12, 2012
Submitted on Apr 12, 2012

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