Glossary    Species    Home

Common Grackle Quiscalus quiscula

Flight call description Most common flight call is a dry, nasal "ghep". Also gives a higher "khek", a vibrant "bzrrt", a harsh, descending "khaaa", and a variety of song fragments in flight primarily during spring migration and on the breeding grounds.

 

Fig.1. New Jersey November 5, 2000 (MO). 

"Ghep" call from bird in flight.

 

Examples     Diurnal

 

Similar species Louder and huskier than blackbirds. See Great-tailed and Boat-tailed Grackles.

 

Behavior Primarily a diurnal migrant. Gives flight calls regularly while perched and in flight during the day. Not known to give flight calls at night. Occasionally sings in flight.