The Grackles

A group of scientists, doctors, and other professionals, many of whom have Haida origins, who are running experiments in a portion of woods of the Pacific Northwest which the Grackles believe to have “unique features.” They have set up a large makeshift array of satellite dishes pointing down into the ground among a base of trees. The animals in the region also exhibit strange behavior—the birds, for instance, are cannibalistic and violent. While staying in the region overnight, Nic encounters creatures he calls “shadows”—including an incredibly tall and slender creature wearing a long, bird-like mask. The sight of this being triggers full-bodied terrifying fear. According to Veronika Pilman, this individual is part of the Grackles’ research project.

In Season 2 the Grackles have abandoned their research site. They later appear, supporting Veronika Pilman and Nathanial Carter in their plans to re enter Tanis with Nic.

Two of the Grackles are Karn and Arl. Karn is a nickname for Jonathon Karnahan.

(From http://www.podcastenthusiast.com/tanis/)