Observers: D.Parker
Email: j.parkeratcebridge.net
Verification: MONO
Remote Name: 209.33.43.232
Date: 08/11/2008
Time: 11:14 AM -0400
Hi Ken: One explanation for the lack of Great-tailed Grackles in summer is in spring they move to special habitats to nest. They separate out from the winter flock, nesting individually in pairs. What I've observed is that they nest near water, and more specifically, shallow ponds with trees or shrubs on the edge for cover. From there, they probably disperse with young in tow to search out areas with food & lessons on food-gathering. In late fall, (?), they return to their wintering habitat and hangout in their flock. All of the places you mentioned are known by birders for excellent birding.