The Eye - Catching Great - Tailed Grackle: A Social Avian Sensation

The Great - Tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus) is a remarkable bird species that has captured the attention of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. This medium - sized passerine, native to the Americas, is known for its distinct appearance and lively behavior.

 

Measuring 38 - 46 cm in length, with males weighing 203 - 265 g and females 115 - 142 g, the Great - Tailed Grackle exhibits significant sexual dimorphism. Males are a sight to behold, with their iridescent black plumage that shimmers in purple - blue hues on the head and upper body. Their long, keel - shaped tails, which can be folded vertically, are nearly as long as their bodies. Their bright yellow eyes add a touch of vibrancy to their imposing look. Females, on the other hand, are much smaller and have a more understated brown plumage, with darker wings and tails. Juveniles of both sexes sport brown eyes and plumage similar to females, though with streaks on the breast.

These highly social birds have a wide - ranging habitat. They can be found in a variety of open and semi - open areas, from agricultural fields and feedlots to suburban lawns, golf courses, and city parks. Their range has expanded significantly over the years. Originating from the tropical lowlands of Central and South America, they have spread northwards following urban and agricultural corridors. Today, their territory stretches from northwestern Venezuela and western Colombia and Ecuador in the south, all the way to Minnesota in the north, and from the west coast states like Oregon, Idaho, and California to Florida in the east. Vagrants have even been spotted as far north as southern Canada.

Great - Tailed Grackles are omnivores with diverse foraging habits. They peck at the ground in search of insects, larvae, and seeds. They also wade into shallow water to catch tadpoles, fish, and crustaceans. Additionally, they are not averse to raiding the nests of other birds for eggs and nestlings. During the breeding season, which usually starts in early or mid - April, males put on elaborate displays to attract females. Territorial males defend their areas where multiple females build their nests using woven grass, twigs, and sometimes man - made materials. Females lay 4 - 7 eggs, which they incubate for about 13 - 14 days. The young leave the nest 12 - 17 days after hatching but continue to be fed by their parents for several weeks. Despite being considered pests in some areas due to their habit of eating young crops and fruits, they play an important role in the ecosystem, and their population remains stable, classified as a species of least concern by the IUCN.