Boat-tailed Grackle

Quiscalus major

Least ConcernCommonOmnivoreWetlandCup nestMedium · 151 g

About the Boat-tailed Grackle

The boat-tailed grackle is a passerine bird of the family Icteridae found as a permanent resident on the coasts of the Southeastern and Mid-Atlantic United States.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

The male boat-tailed grackle is 37–43 cm (15–17 in) long and weighs 165–250 g (5.8–8.8 oz). Adult males have entirely iridescent black plumage, a long dark bill, a pale yellowish or brown iris, and a long keel-shaped tail. The adult female is much smaller at 26–33 cm (10–13 in) long and a weight of 90–115 g (3.2–4.1 oz). She is also distinguished by her shorter tail and tawny-brown coloration, which covers the body apart from the darker wings and tail. The wingspan in adult birds is 39–50 cm (15–20 in). In standard measurements, this species measures 13–20 cm (5.1–7. Voice: Its song is a harsh jeeb, and it has a variety of typically grackle-like chatters and squeaks. Their call lacks of whistles and clucks typical of the great-tailed grackle.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where it lives

Regular rangeRare visitor

Recorded as a rare visitor in Costa Rica.

When to see it

Peak activity in April · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

Side by side: Boat-tailed Grackle vs Common Grackle · Boat-tailed Grackle vs Great-tailed Grackle · Boat-tailed Grackle vs Carib Grackle · Boat-tailed Grackle vs Greater Antillean Grackle

Learn the Boat-tailed Grackle for real

BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.

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