Flock of Grackles Takes Over Texas Parking Lot

A January 2nd video captured by Yvone Gomez shows a flock of great-tailed grackles swarming a shopping plaza in Cypress, Texas. The sheer number of winged creatures has caused viewers to draw parallels to Alfred Hitchcock’s movie The Birds. Numbering in the hundreds, the flock of grackles was undisturbed by humans and blocked shoppers from moving around the parking lot and accessing the stores.

Source: Eyewitness News ABC7NY/YouTube

Great-tailed grackles are common throughout the southern United States, says the Houston Audubon Society. They live in large flocks and tend to enjoy spending time in areas like the shopping center. This is often due to the availability of food via trash cans, and ample perch space in trees, on cars, and light posts. Flocks of grackles may be aggressive when defending their young or nests. Large numbers of the birds may swoop, chase, or even mob perceived threats to their young. This includes people. 

The large flock of grackles captured on camera seemed particularly unperturbed by humans. They refused to move despite being honked at by cars and even shouted out by a child.

We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to only adopt instead of shopping. Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal. We recommend using these apps to find shelter dogs near you!

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