Bronzed Cowbird
NameBronzed Cowbird
Common NameBronzed Cowbird
Scientific NameMolothrus aeneus
FamilyIcteridae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black with a bronze-purple iridescence, especially on the head and body, and have shaggy feathers around the neck and head. Adult females are duller black with less iridescence. Both sexes possess distinctive bright red eyes.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of gurgles, whistles, and chattering notes. The male's song is a complex series of gurgles and whistles, often ending with a high-pitched 'whee-tsee'.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the southwestern United States (primarily Texas, Arizona, and New Mexico), Mexico, and Central America, extending south to Panama. They are migratory in the northern parts of their range.
Identifying FeaturesAll black plumage with bronze iridescence (males), Shaggy feathers on head and neck (males), Bright red eyes, Brood parasitic behavior, Conical bill
Description
The Bronzed Cowbird is a medium-sized, all-black passerine known for its brood parasitic behavior. Males display an iridescent bronze sheen and shaggy neck feathers, while both sexes are characterized by striking red eyes. They are often found in open habitats, foraging on the ground.
