hey Lita- glad that you're new to this bird thing as well. i think it can be really interesting, a challenge even, to try to figure out exactly what it is that we see. its a really good thing to challenge your mind often- i'm am terrified of developing alzheimers disease (i dont know that its heriditary, but i'm afraid regardless...)- i've seen a couple different studies that suggest that challenging your mind is the best way to keep it strong and in good working condition. not a cure by any means, but it helps to keep it working. so i'm always looking for something new to explore. (as a result, i'm all over the place with my interests, but oh well).
yup, we have HEB in san antonio. and the one near me, at least the last time i was there was full of grackles. not that i have anything against the grackle itself. well, the sound they make, very much like a robotic bird indeed, is grating at the very least. but the sheer number of them really freak me out- like they are plotting to take over the world... a grackle uprising. i'll get into my car one morning, look into my review mirror, and they'll be stalking me from the backseat, slowly peeking their shiny little heads up over seat... pecking my neck and earlobes... yuck - ALWAYS lock your car
the grackles must do a fair amount of eating bugs, mosquitos, that sort of thing, though, and in that respect, i don't mind them much at all. i have been hesitant to set up bird feeders at my house though- i'm sure my neighbors (as well as myself) would be unhappy if they decided to roost in my yard... maybe the dog would chase them off, or at least she'd get plenty of exercise though, so maybe when i get home, i'll get around to doing that. maybe i'll build one (like i said- all over the place with my interests)...