Trio of common grackles on a fence

Male common grackles have white eyes, wedged tails and glossy, metalic-highlighted black plumage. Females are browner.

Occupied common grackle nest in a scrubby elm

Common grackles often nest in evergreens, but will substitute thick broadleaf saplings when necessary. The nests are rather luxurious.

Male common grackle gathering insects in the riprap

Male grackles in breeding plumage can be rather striking in the right light with metalic purple and bronze highlights.