When I took this photo of a male Great-tailed Grackle, I wondered what the grackle was looking at so intently. The grackle even seemed disturbed by what it could see. Since I was focused on this bird through my viewfinder, I’ll never know.
Male Great-tailed Grackle close up – Nikon D500, tripod mounted, f8, 1/400, ISO 500, +0.7 EV, Nikkor 500mm VR with 1.4x TC, natural light
The grackle may have been focused on another grackle, a Red-winged Blackbird, or perhaps even a midge that he wanted to snap up and swallow. The midges have taken wing already; a few even tickled my face as I photographed this glossy black bird.
I haven’t seen the Great-tailed Grackle males displaying at my local pond yet this year, but I suspect I will soon. I have heard their songs and calls, though. I enjoy watching and photographing grackle behavior and even like hearing the noises they make.
Unfortunately, another person walked by while I was focused on this bird, which caused the grackle to go into “duck and cover” mode.
So, although I didn’t take many photos of this grackle, I took just enough for me.
Life is good.
Mia
Click here to see more of my Great-tailed Grackle photos plus facts and information about this species.