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(Quiscalus quiscula).
Date of admission: May 2025.
Reason for admission: Orphaned.
Patient History:
The Common Grackle is a glossy blackbird known for its iridescent blue-purple head and striking golden eyes. Before developing their sleek adult plumage, nestlings are covered in soft, brown down. They typically hatch from a clutch of 1–7 pale bluish-white eggs, speckled with brown. While parent grackles will defend their nests, they are otherwise not territorial, particularly in winter, when they gather in enormous flocks alongside other blackbird species.
Grackles are omnivores with a famously opportunistic diet. They feed on insects, worms, fish, and grains, earning a reputation for raiding cornfields or visiting backyard feeders. Their natural habitats include open meadows, grasslands, and agricultural areas with scattered trees for nesting. They also adapt well to urban parks and suburban spaces.
Despite their adaptability, Common grackles are experiencing a steep population decline across North America. Once abundant, they are now listed as ‘Near Threatened’ due to habitat loss and other pressures.
Since May 2025, AIWC has admitted 21 Common Grackle nestlings, including these three young ones found orphaned in Medicine Hat. They are currently receiving around-the-clock care, nutrition, and support as they grow strong enough to be released back into the wild, where they’ll eventually don their shiny black adult feathers and rejoin their flock.
Thank you for helping make their care possible!