The Common Grackle is commonly misconceived as a nuisance species, but we believe this bird is simply misunderstood. Common Grackles are large, noisy birds. However, we don’t think this makes them a nuisance. Rather, we believe they are fascinating creatures who deserve our interest and attention.
In fact, this bird has many unique abilities and behaviors that sets it apart from other species. From the magnetic, navigational minerals in their brains to their impressive flocking behavior – forming groups of up to a million birds – they never fail to amaze us. There is much to learn about the Common Grackle and trust us, you won’t regret taking the time to learn more about this misunderstood bird!
A Quick Overview About The Common Grackle
The Common Grackle has an iridescent black plumage that bears a glossy shine in the right light. Males have long, keel-shaped tails while females lack this and have plumage that is slightly duller yet still somewhat iridescent. Both genders have sharp, tapered bills and yellow legs and eyes.
Common Grackles live across most of northern U.S. and southern Canada. They are often found walking in fields feeding on dropped seeds and wasted crops. This species is an opportunistic feeder and will eat nearly anything, including garbage. Don’t let their eating habits fool you, however, Common Grackles are intelligent birds. They pass many cognitive tests proving their skills in logic and reasoning. They are adaptable and exceedingly social birds.
12 Surprising Facts About the Common Grackle
The list of surprising facts about the Common Grackle goes on and on! Painstakingly, we narrowed it down to the twelve fun and interesting facts listed below. To start, let’s address why people often regard these birds as pests – and why we think they deserve a better reputation.
12. Common Grackles Are Commonly Perceived As Pests
Flocks of Common Grackles can occasionally decimate agricultural fields with excessive feeding, largely due to their big flock sizes. They are loud, noisy and abundant birds and often display bullish behavior at bird feeders, sometimes earning them a poor reputation among birders. As a result, there have been some tragic outcomes for these birds including the mass culling of them by both farmers and the U.S. government itself.
11. However, These Birds Actually Help Ecosystem Equilibrium
Despite their reputation, Common Grackles are actually essential to the health of the environment. They play an important role in plant biodiversity by dispersing seeds across the land through their droppings. They also act as a natural pest control in agricultural lands, feeding on insects like mosquitoes, black flies, and ants.
10. Common Grackles Roost in Unfathomably High Numbers
We’ve mentioned these birds typically travel in high numbers. But during the non-breeding season, Common Grackles also form large communal roosts. In October and November, these roosts can host over 100,000 birds. Their winter roosts are even bigger and some in the southeastern U.S. can contain over a million birds.
9. This Species Is in Steep Decline
The Common Grackle seems to be abundant. It is, in fact, one of the most abundant birds in North America. Yet, their population has been on the decline for some time and it is plummeting as of late. The IUCN Red List has responded by listing this bird as ‘Near Threatened‘ and there are some conservation efforts in the works to protect this species.
8. This Bird Has Weird Nesting Habits
The Common Grackle nests differently than most birds. For starters, the female often abandons a nest halfway through building to start over somewhere new for no apparent reason. What’s more, she sometimes abandons the building process altogether to nest in another bird’s home – using both nests and excavated tree holes. She even does this while the nest is still occupied!
7. The Bird Has a Mysterious Behavior
The Common Grackle is one type of species that engages in anting. This is a behavior that consists of rubbing ants, marigolds, and other flowers and insects on its plumage. It is unsure why bird species do this behavior, yet it is thought the birds may be attempting to use the secretions to keep their plumage in good condition and critter-free.
6. Common Grackles Enjoy Mimicry
The Common Grackle is great at mimicry. It mimics noises from other birds as well as that of humans. It is not as skilled as parrots or ravens, but has an uncanny ability, nonetheless.
5. They Have a Very Diverse Diet
We mentioned the Common Grackle has a unique and diverse diet. What exactly do they eat? Examples include fruit, seeds, grains, insects, and worms. Many will also eat crustaceans, fish, frogs, mice, and other birds. They will even pick through human garbage!
4. Common Grackles Use Geomagnetic Navigation
This bird has a magnetic mineral in its head, beak, and neck that allows it to tap into Earth’s geomagnetic fields. This internal compass enables the bird to effectively navigate its surroundings. Other animals also possess this ability including bees, fish, turtles, whales, and bats.
3. They Are Common Characters in Mythology and Folklore
People have long been intrigued by Common Grackles. They commonly appear in North American and European folklore. People also believe they are symbolic, though what they are symbolic of depends greatly on who you ask. Some would say they represent good luck or, for others, a coming change.
2. Common Grackles Have Symbology in Dreams
Common Grackles have symbology in dreams, too. The message is often positive – a sign of soon reaching your goal or a reminder that resourcefulness helps accomplish your goals. It can also symbolise finding the courage to speak!
1. They Can Be Attracted to Your Backyard
Common Grackles are a bully at the feeder, but they are still a sight to be seen. Attract them with feeders placed a few inches above the ground and away from trees. They eat sunflower seeds, acorns, and corn. They also love a heated bird bath!
As you can see, the Common Grackle is indeed a misunderstood bird. Although often disregarded as a nuisance pest, they are, in reality, an intelligent, unique, and an all-around interesting species.
