Great Tailed vs Common Grackle—what’s the difference? At first glance, these birds may seem alike. But look closer, and you’ll spot key contrasts in size, color, sound, and habits. I’ve spent years watching both in backyards, parks, and parking lots. In this guide, I’ll share what makes each bird special—and how to tell them apart with ease.
Table of Contents
9 Main Differences
Ever seen a bold black bird with a tail like a boat sail? That’s likely a Great-tailed Grackle. But its cousin, the Common Grackle, is just as feisty—only a little more modest. Let’s break down the 9 main differences between these two noisy neighbors.
1. Size and Weight
Great-tailed Grackles are bigger and bolder.
Males can grow up to 18 in (46 cm), while females average 15 in (38 cm). Common Grackles are smaller—about 11–13 in (28–34 cm). Great-tails also look longer due to their oversized tails.
2. Range and Distribution
Great-tailed Grackles love the South and West; Common Grackles prefer the East.
You’ll spot Great-tails in Texas, Arizona, and even Costa Rica. Common Grackles cover most of eastern North America.
3. Habitat Preference
Great-tails thrive in cities and farmland.
They hang out near food trucks, grocery stores, or open fields. Common Grackles stick to woods, lawns, and suburban yards.
4. Flight and Escape Behavior
Common Grackles fly in tighter flocks and stay lower.
Great-tails are flashier—often gliding with long, fanned tails like capes.
5. Feeding Habits
Both are omnivores, but Great-tails are craftier.
They’ll pull bugs off cars or hunt fish in shallow water. Common Grackles love cornfields and dropped snacks.
6. Breeding and Nesting
Great-tails form harems; Common Grackles prefer loose colonies.
Males show off with dramatic calls. Females build nests and raise chicks solo.
7. Hunting Techniques
Great-tails dive for fish and raid nests.
Common Grackles rely more on ground foraging, especially after lawn mowing.
8. Personality and Interaction
Great-tails are loud and theatrical.
Common Grackles are sneaky and social—sometimes stealing food from others.
9. Conservation and Status
Common Grackles are Near Threatened; Great-tails are thriving.
While both are adaptable, Common Grackles have dropped in number due to habitat loss.
Great-tailed Grackle
If you’ve ever seen a glossy black bird strutting like it owns the place—probably squawking at the top of its lungs—it might just be the Great-tailed Grackle. I’ve spent over two years watching these birds in parks, parking lots, and even perched boldly on rooftops. They’re loud, social, and always full of surprises. Here’s my take on them.
What I Like
These are the moments that made me smile, think, or even laugh thanks to this bird.
- They’re full of personality. Every grackle feels like a tiny character in its own movie—sometimes a villain, sometimes a hero.
- Always entertaining. Their wide range of sounds—from whistles to metallic creaks—never gets boring.
- They’re very adaptable. I’ve seen them thriving in busy city centers, messy backyards, and quiet wetlands.
- Surprisingly smart. They solve problems, mimic sounds, and even drop objects into water to raise the level. It’s wild!
- They stand out. Their long tails and shimmering feathers catch the light and demand attention.
Their Role in Nature and Unique Personalities
From my time watching them, I’ve realized grackles aren’t just noisy birds—they’re clever survivors and natural recyclers.
- They help control insects. I’ve seen them picking bugs off lawns after a rain or mowing session.
- Great opportunists. They eat almost anything—helping clean up leftovers and fallen fruit.
- Social but bold. They aren’t shy. In fact, they’ll challenge crows, jays, and even squirrels.
- Natural performers. Males puff up and call loudly just to impress. It’s fun to watch—like a bird drama!
My Personal Experience
I’ve been seeing this bird for over two years now—first in a local market, then at my neighborhood lake. I didn’t expect to like them at first, but over time, they’ve become one of my favorite birds to observe.
Appearance
Grackles look like something out of a fantasy movie. Their glossy feathers shimmer purple and blue in sunlight.
- Males are striking. Their iridescent black feathers and golden eyes make them hard to ignore.
- Females are more low-key. They’re brown and sleek but still graceful.
- I often see them fluffing their feathers or walking like they own the place. It’s hard not to laugh.
Size
This is where they surprised me.
- Bigger than I thought. They’re larger than starlings but smaller than crows—about 15 to 18 inches long.
- Long tails steal the show. Males especially have a tail that fans out like a sail in the wind.
- Their size gives them presence without feeling intimidating.
Behavior & Diet
Their behavior is what made me curious in the first place.
- Bold feeders. I’ve seen them eat fries, bread, fruit, and bugs—all in one sitting!
- Not afraid to steal. They’ll grab food from other birds, even mid-flight.
- Problem solvers. One dropped pebbles in a puddle to get floating food—it blew my mind.
- They walk with confidence and aren’t scared to explore new things.
Habitat & Range
Wherever I go, they seem to follow.
- Common across towns and cities. I first spotted them in a noisy parking lot—and now I see them almost everywhere.
- Love open spaces. I often find them near fields, lakes, or outdoor food spots.
- Their range has grown over time. They’ve spread far north thanks to towns and farmland.
Nesting & Reproduction
They’re as clever in parenting as they are in feeding.
- Females build the nests. I’ve seen them use twigs, plastic, and even shoelaces!
- Usually 4 to 7 eggs. The nests are often high in trees but sometimes near buildings.
- Mothers feed the young for weeks. I’ve watched one bring bugs nonstop for hours—such dedication.
Symbolism
These birds aren’t just practical—they’re deeply rooted in stories.
- In Mexico, they’re called “zanate” and believed to hold seven songs—one for each human emotion.
- To me, they represent survival and boldness. No matter the chaos, they thrive and make their presence known.
Physical Features
There’s more to their look than meets the eye.
- Males have a V-shaped keel tail. They can flip it upright like a flag!
- Yellow eyes shine. They stare at you like they’re sizing you up.
- I often think of them as the pirates of the bird world—sharp, curious, and unpredictable.
Types of Great-tailed Grackle
I learned there are eight subspecies—each with slight differences depending on where they live.
- The ones I see most often are probably Q. m. monsoni or Q. m. prosopidicola—both found in the central U.S.
- Their calls and coloring change a bit based on location, which keeps things interesting when traveling.
Importance of Great-tailed Grackle
They matter more than I realized at first.
- Pest control. They eat tons of insects, especially in farming areas.
- Scavengers. They clean up food waste in cities, acting like flying janitors.
- They’re a reminder that nature doesn’t just live in forests—it’s in our parking lots too.
Fun Facts About Great-tailed Grackle
These made me smile or stop and stare.
- They mimic sounds. I once heard one copy a car alarm—no joke!
- Super vocal. Their calls range from beautiful whistles to rusty creaks.
- Clever tool users. They use sticks or pebbles to solve simple problems.
- A group of them is called a plague—which sounds dramatic, but kind of fits!
Common Grackle
You don’t just see a Common Grackle—you hear it first. For over two years, I’ve been watching these glossy, bold birds strut around my neighborhood. They’ve embarrassed me more than once by stealing food right off the table. But the more I learned about them, the more I appreciated their cleverness and unique charm.
What I Like
These are the reasons I’ve grown to admire the Common Grackle, even when it’s being a little bit of a troublemaker.
- Full of confidence. Grackles walk like they’re in charge. I’ve seen one chase off a pigeon twice its size.
- Beautiful in the sun. Their feathers shine with purple, green, and blue when the light hits just right.
- Smart eaters. I’ve watched them crack open nuts and even steal food from other birds with perfect timing.
- Social creatures. They’re often in groups, chatting and moving together like a bird version of a street gang.
- Useful in the garden. They eat bugs, clean up scraps, and love freshly mowed lawns.
Their Role in Nature and Unique Personalities
From my time watching them, I’ve realized they’re more than just noisy birds. They’re resourceful, clever, and surprisingly helpful.
- Nature’s cleanup crew. They’ll eat leftovers, roadkill, or fruit from trees—whatever’s available.
- Lawn insect patrol. After a fresh mow, they swoop down and grab bugs like pros.
- Bold and brave. I’ve seen them stand their ground against crows, squirrels, and even cats.
- Each one has quirks. Some prefer peanuts. Others follow people. They all seem to have their own “style.”
My Personal Experience
I have been seeing this bird for over two years—often in my backyard, city parks, or even restaurant patios. They’ve made me laugh, get frustrated, and even stop and admire their bold colors.
Appearance
Here’s where they first caught my eye. They aren’t just black—they shine.
- Males are glossy show-offs. I remember the first time I saw one glowing purple in the sun. I had to do a double take.
- Females are subtler. They’re browner and softer-looking, but no less striking.
- Bright eyes. Their yellow eyes stare at you like they know something you don’t.
Size
I didn’t expect them to be this big.
- Larger than a robin. Most are around 11–13 inches long. They stand tall and look alert.
- Light but solid. They’re not heavy, but their strong beaks and long tails give them presence.
- In groups, they feel bigger. When a whole “plague” of grackles shows up, they dominate the scene.
Behavior & Diet
Their eating habits embarrassed me once—they took a whole chip from my hand. But I respect their boldness.
- Omnivores with no shame. Bugs, fruit, seeds, fries—they eat it all.
- Love open ground. After mowing, I always see them foraging for worms or beetles.
- They steal with style. I’ve seen one grab bread from a sparrow mid-flight.
- Smart tools. Their beak has a keel that helps them slice open nuts—pretty advanced for a songbird.
Habitat & Range
They’re everywhere I go—and I mean that in a good way.
- Cities, suburbs, and fields. I see them perched on fences, power lines, and even shopping carts.
- Wide North American range. They’re common east of the Rockies and often migrate in huge flocks.
- Love water and trees. They often build near ponds, but I’ve seen them nesting in pine trees, too.
Nesting & Reproduction
Their nesting is a team effort—mostly on the female’s side.
- Hidden nests. They build them high in trees or even in quiet corners of buildings.
- 4–7 eggs. I once saw a mother guard her nest fiercely while dad strutted nearby.
- Cooperative colonies. They often nest near others, which helps protect from predators.
Symbolism
These birds aren’t just real-life characters—they’ve got a role in folklore too.
- Symbols of mystery and mischief. Some cultures see them as clever tricksters or bold spirits.
- To me, they stand for street smarts and survival. They make the most of every scrap and every space.
Physical Features
Up close, they look more like jungle birds than backyard ones.
- Sharp beaks. Their bill isn’t just for show—it’s built for cracking and slicing.
- Iridescent feathers. Depending on the light, they shift from black to violet to green.
- Tail shape varies. Some have straight tails, while others flare them in fan-like displays.
Types of Common Grackle
Not all grackles look exactly the same—regional types add to the fun.
- Bronzed Grackle. These are the ones I mostly see—shiny bodies and bold eyes.
- Purple Grackle. Their heads glow deep blue and purple—more common near the coast.
- Florida Grackle. I spotted one on a trip—it looked slightly darker and smaller than the others.
Importance of Common Grackle
Even though they’re often seen as pests, they play a valuable role.
- Bug control. Especially helpful in gardens and farms.
- Seed spreaders. As they eat and travel, they help plants move, too.
- Cleanup crew. They help reduce food waste in public areas.
- While they can be a bit noisy and bold, their benefits often outweigh the drawbacks.
Fun Facts About Common Grackle
These tidbits still surprise me.
- They “ant.” They rub ants on their feathers—possibly for bug spray!
- Call like machines. One sounded like a buzzing phone line—it made me laugh out loud.
- Group name: a plague. Sounds dramatic, but if you’ve seen 100 grackles land at once, you’ll get it.
- Smart and sneaky. They’ll watch for people dropping food, then swoop in like feathered thieves.
Great Tailed vs Common Grackle: Details Comparison
I’ve been seeing both of these birds for years. They’ve shown up in my backyard, parking lots, and parks—sometimes side by side. At first, I thought they were the same bird, but the more I watched, the more I noticed the subtle (and not-so-subtle) differences.
Appearance: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
Both birds shimmer in the sun, but the Great-tailed Grackle has a sleeker, more dramatic look.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Plumage | Glossy black with purple-blue shine | Iridescent black with bronze, green, or blue |
| Tail | Very long and V-shaped | Long but not as dramatic |
| Eyes | Bright yellow | Pale yellow |
| Female | Dull brown with dark wings | Brown with a shorter tail |
| General Look | Slender and flashy | Stocky and bold |
Size: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
Size is one of the easiest ways to tell them apart—Great-tailed Grackles are bigger all around.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Length | 15–18 inches (38–46 cm) | 11–13 inches (28–34 cm) |
| Weight (Male) | 7.2–9.3 oz (203–265 g) | 4.3 oz (122 g) |
| Wingspan | 19–23 inches (48–58 cm) | 14–18 inches (36–46 cm) |
Behavior & Diet: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
Both are clever and bold, but the Great-tailed Grackle is more theatrical, while the Common Grackle is a little sneakier.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Behavior | Loud, social, territorial | Opportunistic, often forages in flocks |
| Diet | Insects, fruit, grains, fish, small animals | Insects, seeds, grains, small birds, even rodents |
| Feeding Style | Forages on ground and in water | Scavenges, raids feeders, steals from other birds |
| Intelligence | Solves problems like dropping objects in water | Smart with strong jaw for cracking seeds |
Habitat & Range: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
Both adapt well to city life, but their ranges are slightly different.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Range | Central America to western U.S. and southern Canada | Eastern and central North America |
| Habitat | Urban areas, wetlands, farmlands | Forest edges, suburbs, farmlands |
| Range Expansion | Rapidly expanded in the last century | Steady expansion westward |
Nesting & Reproduction: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
They nest in colonies and use similar materials, but have slightly different behaviors.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Nest Location | High trees, reeds, buildings | Trees, shrubs, sometimes birdhouses |
| Eggs per Clutch | 4–7 eggs | 4–7 eggs |
| Incubation | 13–14 days | Similar, around 12–14 days |
| Colony Behavior | Territorial males attract multiple females | Less aggressive, cooperative males |
Symbolism: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
In culture, both birds have meaning. The Great-tailed is mystical in Mexico; the Common is known as a trickster.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| In Folklore | Said to have stolen seven songs from a turtle | Seen as bold, clever, and a survivor |
| Regional Symbol | Official bird of Cartagena, Colombia | Not officially symbolic, but familiar in U.S. culture |
| Representation | Passion, creativity, trickery | Street smarts, adaptability |
Hunting: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
Both hunt small animals, but the Great-tailed is more adventurous in shallow water.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Hunting Method | Wades in water, dives slightly for fish | Forages on ground, hunts insects, rodents |
| Prey | Fish, tadpoles, lizards, insects | Bugs, mice, frogs, eggs, small birds |
| Aggression Level | Bold, chases prey on land and water | Opportunistic, prefers ambush or scavenging |
Defense Mechanisms: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
Neither bird is shy. Both have their ways of standing up for themselves.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Vocal Warnings | Loud, metallic calls to alert others | Harsh buzzing and chirps to warn flocks |
| Display Behavior | Fluffs feathers, spreads tail | Tilts head back, puffs chest |
| Group Defense | Roosts communally, mob threats | Gathers in large flocks for safety |
Interaction with Humans: Great Tailed vs Common Grackle
I’ve seen both steal food, hang out near cars, and gather at fast food spots. They’re clever and bold around people.
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Seen In | Parking lots, food courts, farms | Parks, feeders, outdoor dining spots |
| Behavior Around People | Confident, often fearless | Opportunistic, watches and waits |
| Reputation | Sometimes seen as a nuisance for noise and mess | Viewed as a pest in farming areas |
| Human Bond | Loved in places like Austin, Texas | Known and often disliked, but still respected |
Great-tailed vs Common Grackle Size
| Feature | Great-tailed Grackle | Common Grackle |
| Length | 15–18 in (38–46 cm) | 11–13 in (28–34 cm) |
| Weight (Male) | 7.2–9.3 oz (203–265 g) | 4.3 oz (122 g) |
| Weight (Female) | 4.1–5.0 oz (115–142 g) | 3.3 oz (94 g) |
| Wingspan | 19–23 in (48–58 cm) | 14–18 in (36–46 cm) |
| Body Build | Long and lean | Stocky and compact |
Great-tailed Grackle Range
| Feature | Description |
| Native Region | Central America, Mexico, and parts of South America |
| U.S. Expansion | Southwest to Midwest, up to California and Minnesota |
| Full Range | From Peru and Venezuela to southern Canada |
| Preferred Habitats | Cities, farmlands, wetlands, and open grassy spaces |
| Urban Adaptation | Highly adaptable to parking lots, parks, and urban noise |
Great-tailed Grackle Male and Female
| Feature | Male | Female |
| Color | Glossy black with purple-blue shine | Brown with dark wings and tail |
| Size | 15–18 in (38–46 cm), 7.2–9.3 oz (203–265 g) | 14–16 in (35–41 cm), 4.1–5.0 oz (115–142 g) |
| Tail Shape | Long, keel-shaped, fans out like a boat | Shorter, straight, not as dramatic |
| Voice | Loud and varied calls | Softer, mostly chatter |
| Behavior | Displays for mates, very territorial | Nest builder and main caregiver |
Small Black Bird with Long Tail
| Bird | Length | Tail Shape | Common Location | Notes |
| Great-tailed Grackle | 15–18 in (38–46 cm) | Long, V-shaped, keel-like | Urban parks, farmlands | Most common “black bird” with long tail |
| Common Grackle | 11–13 in (28–34 cm) | Long but straight | Yards, feeders, suburbs | Slightly smaller and slimmer tail |
| Brewer’s Blackbird (male) | 7.9–9.8 in (20–25 cm) | Shorter and more rounded | Open fields, sidewalks | Sometimes confused with grackles |
Common Grackle Male vs Female
| Feature | Male | Female |
| Color | Iridescent black with blue-green sheen | Brown with faint iridescence |
| Length | 11–13 in (28–34 cm) | 10–11.5 in (26–29 cm) |
| Weight | 4.3 oz (122 g) | 3.3 oz (94 g) |
| Tail | Long and slightly wedge-shaped | Shorter, without flare |
| Behavior | Displays and sings for territory | Quieter, focused on nesting |
What’s the difference between the Great Tailed and Common Grackle?
The Great Tailed is larger and flashier, while the Common Grackle is smaller and more subtle. Learn more about their looks, calls, and habits.
Is the Great Tailed Grackle louder than the Common Grackle?
Yes, it often is! Great Tailed Grackles have wild, creaky calls. Common Grackles sound buzzy or metallic. Learn more about their vocal styles.
Which bird is more aggressive: Great Tailed or Common Grackle?
Both can be bold, but the Great Tailed is flashier in displays. Common Grackles are more social but sneakier feeders. Learn more about their behavior.
Where can I see Great Tailed vs Common Grackles?
Great Tailed Grackles thrive in the West and South. Common Grackles are found more in the East. Learn more about where they live and nest.
Do Great Tailed and Common Grackles eat the same food?
Mostly, yes. Both eat bugs, seeds, and scraps. Great Tailed Grackles go after fish too! Learn more about their wild feeding habits.
Conclusion
When it comes to Great Tailed vs Common Grackle, both birds bring bold color and big personality. While they share some traits, their size, sound, and habits set them apart. Watching them in the wild has taught me so much. I hope this guide helps you enjoy their charm too—whether in your yard, at the park, or under city lights.
Also Read: Wood Thrush vs Ovenbird : 9 Main Differences
I still remember the day that sparked my love for birds. I was just a kid, sitting in my backyard, when a tiny bird landed near me. It moved so fast, its feathers flashing in the sunlight, and then it sang—soft, clear, and almost magical. In that moment, birds became more than just creatures in the sky. They became a mystery I wanted to solve.
That curiosity never faded. It led me to study Biology at the University of Scranton, where I dove deep into the science of birds—their behavior, their calls, and the incredible ways they survive. Today, that same passion drives me, and through Earth of Birds, I get to share it with you.
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