Brown-headed Cowbird
NameBrown-headed Cowbird
Common NameBrown-headed Cowbird
Scientific NameMolothrus ater
FamilyIcteridae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a glossy, iridescent black body with a distinct chocolate-brown head and neck. Females are duller, uniformly gray-brown with faint streaking on the underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a gurgling 'glug-glug-glee' song, often followed by a high-pitched whistle. They also produce various chirps, chatters, and harsh 'check' calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America, breeding from southern Canada throughout the United States and into Mexico. They are migratory in northern parts of their range, wintering in the southern U.S. and Mexico.
Identifying FeaturesBrown head (male), Glossy black body (male), Conical, finch-like bill, Short tail, Brood parasitic behavior
Description
The Brown-headed Cowbird is a small, stocky blackbird known for its brood parasitic behavior, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species. Males are easily identified by their glossy black bodies and contrasting brown heads, while females are duller gray-brown.
