Giant Cowbird
NameGiant Cowbird
Common NameGiant Cowbird
Scientific NameMolothrus oryzivorus
FamilyIcteridae
Wingspan (cm)39
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)215
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely glossy black with a purplish or bluish sheen, especially on the head and body. Females are a duller sooty black. Both sexes have distinctive bright orange-red eyes and a heavy, pale, conical bill that is bluish-grey.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of whistles, gurgles, and harsh, chattering notes. Males produce complex, liquid-sounding songs, often accompanied by bowing displays.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Mexico through Central America and across much of tropical South America, east of the Andes, extending south to northern Argentina.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a cowbird, Glossy black plumage (males), Bright orange-red eyes, Pale, heavy, conical bill, Brood parasitic behavior
Description
The Giant Cowbird is a large, glossy black passerine known for its brood parasitic behavior. It typically forages in flocks, often alongside cattle or other large mammals, feeding on insects and seeds. Males display a striking purplish sheen, while females are duller.
