Melodious Blackbird

Male melodious blackbirds average 25.5 cm (10 in) long and weigh 98.3 to 102 g (3.5 to 3.6 oz). Females average 23 cm (9.1 in) long and weigh 83.4 to 95.9 g (2.9 to 3.4 oz). The species has a long tail and disproportionately large legs and feet. The sexes have the same plumage: Adults are entirely black with blue and purple iridescence. They have a dark brown iris, a black bill, and black legs and feet. Juveniles are a duller, non-glossy, brownish black. Voice: Both sexes of the melodious blackbird sing, and often do so in duet. One description of its song calls is "loud and musical, a mix of mellow whistles and warbles with sudden changes in pitch". They sing from an open perch and display to each other "with pumping movements that appear almost like a dance", singing a "ringing, slightly liquid Wheeeee 'Teeuu!" that is often repeated at length.