The Great-tailed Grackle, also known as the Texas crow, is a bird that is impossible to miss if you live in Texas. They are medium-sized birds, about the same size as a crow, with a long, keel-shaped tail that sets them apart from other grackles. Their feathers are mostly black, but they have iridescent blue and purple undertones that shimmer in the sunlight.
One of the most distinctive features of the Great-tailed Grackle is its call. It is a loud, raucous sound that can be heard from quite a distance away. It almost sounds like a mix between a cawing crow and a squeaky hinge. If you’ve ever been to a parking lot in Texas, you’ve probably heard the cacophony of grackle calls echoing through the air.
These birds are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats. They are commonly seen in urban areas, such as parking lots, parks, and residential neighborhoods. They are also found in agricultural fields, marshes, and along the edges of lakes and rivers. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat just about anything they can find, including insects, small vertebrates, fruits, and grains.
One thing that sets the Great-tailed Grackle apart from other birds is their social behavior. They are highly gregarious and often gather in large flocks, especially during the non-breeding season. These flocks can number in the thousands and can be quite a spectacle to see. They are also known for their aggressive behavior, especially during the breeding season when males will defend their territories and compete for mates.
I have had many encounters with Great-tailed Grackles throughout my life in Texas. One memory that stands out is a visit to a lakeside park where the trees were filled with grackles. As I walked under the trees, they would fly from branch to branch, creating a constant rustling noise. It was both eerie and fascinating to be surrounded by so many of these birds.
The Great-tailed Grackle, or Texas crow, is a medium-sized bird with a distinctive call and iridescent feathers. They are highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, but are most commonly seen in urban areas. Their social behavior and aggressive nature make them a memorable sight for anyone living in Texas.