TaxonHub
Boat-tailed Grackle

Boat-tailed Grackle

Quiscalus major

A large blackbird species native to coastal regions of the southeastern United States, characterized by its iridescent plumage and distinctive long tail.

Image Gallery

Boat-tailed Grackle
Boat-tailed Grackle
Boat-tailed Grackle
Boat-tailed Grackle
Boat-tailed Grackle
ADSENSE SLOT

Ecology & Habitat

Habitat

Marshes, coastal wetlands, estuaries, and urban areas along the Gulf Coast and Atlantic Coast from Florida to Texas

Ecological Role

Key seed disperser, insect control agent, and integral part of coastal ecosystem food webs

Morphology

  • SKIN COAT Predominantly black plumage with metallic blue-purple iridescence, males more vibrant than females
  • LIMBS WINGS Strong legs adapted for ground foraging, wingspan approximately 45-50 cm, black glossy feathers with iridescent blue-purple sheen
  • HEAD SENSORY Sharp, pointed beak, prominent yellow eyes, excellent visual and auditory capabilities
  • BODY STRUCTURE Large passerine bird, body length 33-38 cm, weight 110-250 g, with elongated, keel-shaped tail
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: Serebit
ADSENSE VERTICAL

Related Species in Icteridae