Animalia | Passeriformes | Icteridae | Quiscalus | Quiscalus mexicanus |
The Great-tailed Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus) is a large blackbird found across the Americas, recognized for its iridescent black and purple plumage. Male grackles are significantly larger than females, often using long, V-shaped tails during courtship displays. These displays are paired with various vocalizations, making their soundscape unique among songbirds.
Great-tailed Grackles are highly adaptable and opportunistic, able to thrive in urban environments and feed on a varied diet. Despite their increasing population and range, they are sometimes considered pests due to their feeding habits and loud vocalizations.