Brown-headed Cowbird

Oropendolas, New World Orioles, Blackbirds 👁 207 views Updated 2026-11-01

Brown-headed Cowbird (<em>Molothrus ater</em>) is a species of Oropendolas, New World Orioles, Blackbirds (<em>Icteridae</em>) in the order Perching Birds (Passerines).

Overview

Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater) is a species of Oropendolas, New World Orioles, Blackbirds (Icteridae) in the order Perching Birds (Passerines). A stocky blackbird, the male with a brown head; a brood parasite that lays eggs in other birds' nests; follows grazing herds feeding on flushed insects; its spread threatens host species.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Molothrus; binomial: Molothrus ater; authority: (Boddaert, 1783). Typical size: 17-21cm. Average lifespan: 3-7 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Nearctic and Middle America.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.

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