You have to love the beautiful colors on the feathers of this Common Grackle (Quiscalus quiscula), one of the most encouraging and uplifting signs of spring here in the middle of winter. The bright sunlight lit up this glossy iridescence at just the right angle for me. This February bird was with several others of its species looking for snacks on and pausing in this oak tree. They were all chattering away, as always.
Scott Kruitbosch
Conservation & Outreach Coordinator