Giant Cowbird

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Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Giant Cowbird is the largest of the cowbirds, a robust, entirely glossy black icterid with a long, pointed bill and pale yellow eyes. It is an obligate brood parasite, often targeting large oropendolas and caciques.

Where to spot

Widespread across Central and South America, from southern Mexico south to Argentina. Inhabits humid lowland forests, forest edges, clearings, and plantations, often near host nesting colonies.

How to spot

Look for its large size, glossy black plumage, and pale eyes. Observe its behavior around active oropendola or cacique colonies. Listen for its distinctive, often harsh and gurgling calls.

When to spot

Year-round resident. Most active and conspicuous during the breeding season of its host species, when it seeks out nests to parasitize.

Where to spot

Widespread across Central and South America, from southern Mexico south to Argentina. Inhabits humid lowland forests, forest edges, clearings, and plantations, often near host nesting colonies.

How to spot

Look for its large size, glossy black plumage, and pale eyes. Observe its behavior around active oropendola or cacique colonies. Listen for its distinctive, often harsh and gurgling calls.

When to spot

Year-round resident. Most active and conspicuous during the breeding season of its host species, when it seeks out nests to parasitize.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Due to its large size and specialized bill, the Giant Cowbird's primary hosts are often other large icterids, especially colonial-nesting oropendolas and caciques.

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