Common Grackle – 6/30/14

Observer: Paul Lauenstein

Observation Date: 6/30/2014

Observation Time: 3:50 pm

Observation Location: near Gavins Pond

Common Name: Common Grackle

Scientific Name: Quiscalus quiscula

Comments: You might see a Common Grackle hunched over on the ground, wings spread, letting ants crawl over its body and feathers. This is called anting, and grackles are frequent practitioners among the many bird species that do it. The ants secrete formic acid, the chemical in their stings, and this may rid the bird of parasites.

More Information: All About Birds