Cowbirds are birds belonging to the genus Molothrus in the family Icteridae. They are of New World origin, but some species not native to North America are invasive there, and are obligate brood …

Basic Description 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, …

Today, brown-headed cowbirds occur throughout the United States. Cowbirds evolved to follow herds of grazing animals, often covering many miles in a day. They can little afford the time to build their own …

Centuries ago, the Brown-headed Cowbird probably followed bison herds on the Great Plains, feeding on insects flushed from the grass by the grazers. Today it follows cattle, and occurs abundantly from …

Apr 6, 2025 · The cowbird is native to North America, and many birders consider it a nuisance. Learn about the destructive bird and how to keep it out of your yard.

Feb 22, 2024 · Learn why the brown-headed cowbird is many birders' least favorite—and how to tell cowbird eggs apart from those of other species.

Cowbird, any of five species of birds that belong to the family Icteridae (order Passeriformes) that are named for their habit of associating with cattle in order to prey upon insects stirred up from vegetation.

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 …

Mar 1, 2023 · The Brown-headed Cowbird lives in much of Canada, and throughout the lower 48 states south into Mexico. These birds are especially common on farms and areas with cattle but they can …

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. …