Boat-tailed Grackle

Quiscalus major

A coastal specialist of the southeastern… Look for them in salt marshes, mangroves… Common Rusty Squeak Song

Learn to identify the Boat-tailed Grackle by ear. Master the "reee-klik-glunk!" phrase and tell it apart from similar species.

“reee-klik-glunk!”

What the Boat-tailed Grackle sounds like

This big, swaggering blackbird rules the marsh edge. Males gleam purple-black and flash a long, boat-shaped tail; females are much smaller and warm brown, with a softer, buffy look. Around docks, reeds, and parking lots, they are bold, noisy, and hard to miss.

“reee-klik-glunk!”

How to tell it apart

Listen for:A loud jumble of squeaks, clanks, and liquid notes, like a rusty gate trying to sing. Often written as “reee-klik-glunk!”.

Don't confuse with:The Great-tailed Grackle — usually more inland and urban, not as tightly tied to the coast.

Where you'll hear it

Look for them in salt marshes, mangroves, tidal creeks, beaches, marinas, and coastal towns. They love open, wet places near the shore and are perfectly happy around people.

Spring is pure showtime, with males puffing up, lifting that long tail, and pouring out squeaky songs. In fall and winter, they often gather in noisy flocks and head to communal roosts.

Similar species

Great-tailed Grackle

Usually more inland and urban, not as tightly tied to the coast.

Common Grackle

Smaller and slimmer, with a shorter tail.

Red-winged Blackbird

Much smaller overall.

Boat-tailed Grackle song FAQ

What does a Boat-tailed Grackle sound like?

A loud jumble of squeaks, clanks, and liquid notes, like a rusty gate trying to sing. Listen for the "reee-klik-glunk!" phrase.

How do I tell a Boat-tailed Grackle from a Great-tailed Grackle by sound?

Great-tailed Grackle: Usually more inland and urban, not as tightly tied to the coast.; Male looks lankier with an even longer, flatter-looking tail.; Female is darker brown with a bolder face pattern..

When is the best time to hear a Boat-tailed Grackle?

Spring is pure showtime, with males puffing up, lifting that long tail, and pouring out squeaky songs. In fall and winter, they often gather in noisy flocks and head to communal roosts.