Just wanted to add a few notes about this bird (also may I say that I have
NO experience with G/T Grackles, but used to be up to my knees in Commons):
I am no expert on molting cycles, but the Auburn bird's central retrices
were noticably shorter than the surrounding tail feathers...as can be viewed
in Joseph's photos. When the tail was fanned it seemed like the central
feathers were just coming back in, and that eventually it would assume the
standard "keel" shape.

Also, this bird does not look at all like the pale birds pictured in most
field guides (the eastern subspecies)...but is closer to the nelsoni race
that is mentioned in a few of the more thorough guides. The paler
supercilium is noticeable, but seemed to stop right above the eye rather
than extending to the upper mandible. There also was a very weak pale
mustachial stripe on the bird.

All in all, this bird doesn't scream G/T female, but does seem to fit most
of the required field marks. Would love to see more photos, and appreciate
this great discussion. Who would have thought all this for a Grackle? Woo
hoo.

Jason Paulios
JPaulios at hotmail.com
Olympia, WA



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