Bronzed Cowbird
A species of Cowbirds Scientific name : Molothrus aeneus Genus : Cowbirds
Bronzed Cowbird, A species of Cowbirds
Botanical name: Molothrus aeneus
Genus: Cowbirds
Content
Description General Info
Description
The red-eye cowbird (Molothrus aeneus) is a North American songbird of the starling family.
Size
17-22 cm (6.5-8.75 in)
Life Expectancy
6 years
Nest Placement
Tree
Clutch Size
1 egg
Nestling Period
10 - 12 days
Feeding Habits
Bronzed Cowbird's diet includes seeds from forbs and grasses, grains like milo, oats, corn, and rice, plus insects and other arthropods. They forage on the ground and stalks, often near livestock, where they also feed on disturbed insects and ticks off animals. Bronzed Cowbird adapts well to human areas, eating varied foods at feeding stations.
Habitat
Bronzed Cowbird are typically found in varied environments ranging from farmland and brush to semi-open country and feedlots. In the eastern U.S., bronzed Cowbird favor open areas with sparse trees, such as agricultural fields and grasslands, including Texas's coastal prairie and mesquite-dominated woodlands. In contrast, the western population is drawn to wooded canyons and riparian zones. Urban adaptation is evident as bronzed Cowbird inhabit suburban areas with backyard feeders. In the more southern range, they occupy scrub and tropical forests, up to altitudes of 8,200 feet. Communal nocturnal roosting occurs in tall grasses or reeds, often within marshlands.
Nest Behavior
Bronzed Cowbird are brood parasites, laying eggs in the nests of other bird species. They rely on the host parents for incubation and chick rearing.
Nest Characteristics
Bronzed Cowbird do not build nests of their own.
Dite type
Insectivorous
General Info
Sounds
Song
Recording location: Mexico
Song
Recording location: Mexico
Behavior
Bronzed Cowbird exhibit gregarious behavior, often found in flocks that can exceed 100 individuals, with males being more prevalent. These birds engage in a promiscuous mating system, with multiple matings for both sexes. Notably, their elaborate courtship ritual includes males performing a distinctive display of feather ruffling and a hovering flight aimed at attracting females, predominantly conducted in the morning. In their daily routine, bronzed Cowbird are territorial during mating displays, adopting aggressive postures toward rivals. Throughout the year, these birds may integrate into mixed-species flocks, showcasing their adaptability to various social settings within their habitat.
Species Status
Not globally threatened.
Scientific Classification
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