Great Tailed Grackle

This is a quick sketch of a Great-Tailed Grackle, also known as a Mexican Grackle (Quiscalus mexicanus). 

Another day, I will do a color painting to try and capture the brilliant range of colors in his black, ‘purply-green iridescent’ body and extra long tail. 

Usually, when I see grackles, it’s in Spring-time; and, there’s a flock.  This guy was solo and quite vocal; in fact, it was his raucous cackle that first caught my attention.  Fascinating to watch, he casually strutted around on long delicate legs, putting one foot in front of the other (rather than hopping like some birds). 

Even though he kept his bright yellow eyes on me at all times, he was either very brave or not the slightest bit afraid of my presence (I’m guessing it was the latter). 

He seemed pleased when I complimented him on his impressive tail; as he put a little extra ‘pomp’ into his parade, while foraging for seeds in our yard. 

“Great Tailed Grackle”, © 2012 Cathy Gazda, 5.5” x 9”, Graphite.  ♥