Grackles, known for their aggressive behavior and signature dark plumage, have earned a notorious reputation in Sausalito, California and other parts of North America. Keep reading to discover more about these curious creatures and their pizza-loving ways.
Unmasking the Grackle: What is this Intriguing Bird?
Grackles are medium-sized blackbirds that are part of the Icteridae family. There are several species of grackles, commonly found in the Western Hemisphere, from North America down to Central America and some Caribbean islands.
They are known for their striking appearance, with dark feathers that often shine an iridescent shade of purple or green in sunlight. Grackles are omnivorous, adaptable birds that can be found in a wide range of habitats – this includes suburban areas where they frequently visit restaurants and parks in search of food.
Why Grackles and Pizza: A Match Made in Culinary Heaven?
This funny video shows grackles eating pizza in Sausalito. Grackles are opportunistic birds when it comes to sourcing their meals. As mentioned earlier, they are omnivorous and have a varied diet that includes insects, small vertebrates, seeds, and plants. But they are also known to consume human food, especially when it is readily available in urban and suburban areas.
Grackle Behavior: Bold, Brash, and Unapologetic
Grackles are not shy birds by any means. They are known for their brash, bold, and sometimes aggressive behavior towards humans and other birds.
When it comes to food, grackles will do whatever it takes to secure a meal, even if it means stealing from diners at an outdoor cafe.
Grackles Control Measures: What Can Be Done?
For business owners and residents who have grown weary of the grackle invasion, various measures can be implemented to deter these birds from frequenting their establishments or homes. Some possible solutions include:
1. Eliminate food sources: Ensure outdoor dining areas are kept clean and food waste is disposed of promptly. This will help make the area less attractive to grackles.
2. Use bird barriers: Installing netting, spikes or other deterrents in strategic locations can help keep grackles at bay.
3. Employ noise and visual deterrents: Ultrasonic devices, reflective materials, or even trained birds of prey can be employed to keep grackels away from your property.
