Brown-headed Cowbird
Brown-headed Cowbird
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The Brown-headed Cowbird is a small, common icterid, with males having a glossy black body and a contrasting brown head. Females are dull grey-brown. It is infamous as an obligate brood parasite, laying eggs in other species' nests.
Where to spot
Widespread across most of North America, from southern Canada to Mexico. Found in open woodlands, grasslands, agricultural areas, and suburban environments.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive brown head on a black body (male) or drab grey-brown plumage (female). Observe its behavior near other birds' nests. Listen for its gurgling and bubbling calls and high-pitched whistles.
When to spot
Year-round resident in much of its range, migratory in northern parts. Most conspicuous during the breeding season (spring/summer).
Where to spot
Widespread across most of North America, from southern Canada to Mexico. Found in open woodlands, grasslands, agricultural areas, and suburban environments.
How to spot
Look for its distinctive brown head on a black body (male) or drab grey-brown plumage (female). Observe its behavior near other birds' nests. Listen for its gurgling and bubbling calls and high-pitched whistles.
When to spot
Year-round resident in much of its range, migratory in northern parts. Most conspicuous during the breeding season (spring/summer).
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
A single female Brown-headed Cowbird can lay dozens of eggs in a breeding season, distributing them among the nests of up to 200 different host species, making it a significant challenge for some songbird populations.
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