: a widely distributed variety (Quiscalus quiscula versicolor) of the common grackle that is distinguished by the bronzy iridescence of the plumage
The "purple" grackle is found in the Southeast. It is almost uniformly purple with green gloss. The more northern form is the "bronzed" grackle; its bronzy body contrasts with its blue-black head.—Chris Petrak, The Brattleboro (Vermont) Reformer, 4 Apr. 2008
"Purple" grackles and "bronzed" grackles trend toward those iridescent hues and formerly were considered two separate species. The purple form is found mostly along the Atlantic Coast, and the bronzed in the interior U.S.—Joe Prentice, The Daily Camera (Boulder, Colorado), 12 Oct. 2007
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