Great-tailed grackle

The great-tailed grackle, also known as the Mexican grackle, is a medium-sized bird native to North and South America. Belonging to the Icteridae family, it shares its lineage with other grackle species. Male grackles are particularly striking, boasting iridescent black feathers that shimmer with a purple-blue sheen, while females have a more subdued brown plumage with darker wings and tails. These birds are notably vocal, producing a wide range of calls, which can sometimes be perceived as a nuisance due to their loudness.

During the breeding season, great-tailed grackles build nests in trees and typically lay between 4 to 7 eggs. The fledglings leave the nest after about 12 to 17 days and continue to be cared for by their parents until they reach independence.

Originally from Central and South America, these birds were introduced to Mexico by the Aztecs and have since spread northward into North America. They thrive in various habitats, including pastures, wetlands, and mangroves. Their diet is quite diverse, consisting of insects, fruits, grains, and even fish. An interesting aspect of their behavior is communal roosting. Additionally, they exhibit three distinct mating strategies during the breeding season.