Brewer's Blackbird vs Common Grackle

In short

Brewer's Blackbird and Common Grackle can be distinguished by size and tail shape. Brewer's Blackbird is smaller with a shorter, rounded tail, while Common Grackle is larger with a long, keel-shaped tail. Both species have iridescent plumage, but Brewer's Blackbird males have a more uniform violet and blue-green sheen.

Identification tips

• Size and Tail: Brewer's Blackbird is smaller with a shorter, rounded tail; Common Grackle is larger with a long, keel-shaped tail.
• Iridescence: Brewer's Blackbird males have a uniform violet and blue-green sheen; Common Grackle's iridescence can vary more widely.
• Eye Color: Brewer's Blackbird has piercing yellow eyes, which can be a helpful field mark.
• Calls: Listen for the harsher calls of the Common Grackle compared to the simpler sounds of Brewer's Blackbird.

Size

Brewer's Blackbird is smaller than the Common Grackle, which is notably larger and more robust.

Plumage

Brewer's Blackbird males have a striking violet and blue-green iridescence with yellow eyes. Common Grackle also displays iridescence but is generally larger and has a more varied sheen, often appearing bronzed or purplish depending on the light.

Behaviour

Both species are social and can be found in flocks, but Common Grackle is more aggressive and known for its pest behavior, including raiding nests.

Habitat

Both species prefer open habitats and suburban areas. Brewer's Blackbird is more common in western North America, while Common Grackle is widespread across the continent.

Voice

Common Grackle has a harsher, more varied call compared to the simpler calls of Brewer's Blackbird.