Look for Brown-headed Cowbirds in fields, meadows, and lawns. During winter and migration, search through mixed-species blackbird flocks and look for the glossy black plumage and subtle brown head in males and the short, stout bill and unmarked brown of females.

The brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) is a small, obligate brood parasitic icterid native to temperate and subtropical North America. It is a permanent resident in the southern parts of its range; northern birds migrate to the southern United States and Mexico in winter, returning to their summer habitat around March or April.

6-8" (15-20 cm). Male glossy black, with contrasting brown head. Female confusing, plain dusty brown with dark, sparrowlike bill. Juvenile streaked at first.

2011年3月14日 · The Brown-headed Cowbird is a stocky blackbird with a fascinating approach to raising its young. Females forgo building nests and instead put all their energy into producing eggs, sometimes more than three dozen a summer.

2024年2月22日 · Learn why the brown-headed cowbird is many birders' least favorite—and how to tell cowbird eggs apart from those of other species. Perhaps no bird native to North America is more maligned than the brown-headed cowbird.

This bird is the most widespread brood parasite—it depends on others to raise its young. Find out more about the brown-headed cowbird.

Short tail and stocky body. Males are glossy black with chocolate brown head. Females are gray-brown overall, without bold streaks, but slightly paler throat. Juveniles streaked brown. Found in open woods, farmland, and stockyards. Forages by walking on the ground. Often in flocks with other blackbirds in winter. Visits feeders.

Brown-headed Cowbirds are native to the United States and prefer open grasslands, as well as agricultural, urban, and suburban habitats where grain or cattle-disturbed soil are readily available. Historically they followed herds of bison, eating …

Cowbird eggs hatch faster than other species’ eggs, giving cowbird nestlings a head start in getting food from the parents. How they sound: Male Brown-headed Cowbirds sing a liquid-sounding series of low gurgling notes followed by thin sliding whistles.

The Brown-headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) is a sturdy blackbird with an unusual approach to parenthood. Females do not build nests but use all their energy for producing eggs, sometimes over three dozen per summer.