Brown-headed CowbirdBrown-headed Cowbird -- South Dakota Birds
| Length: 7.75 inches | Wingspan: 13 inches | Seasonality: Summer |
| ID Keys: Black body with brown head (male) | ||
Brown-headed Cowbird
Molothrus ater
The Brown-headed Cowbird was originally a bird of the Great Plains, following herds of bison and feeding on the insects that were stirred up. It has undoubtedly benefited greatly from man's alteration of the landscape and introduction of grazing cattle in all parts of the country. Cowbirds' claim to fame, however, is its characteristic brood parasitism. As with all cowbirds, it lays its eggs in the nests of other species, leaving the host species to raise its young. Over 125 different species have been known to unwittingly raise the young of Brown-headed Cowbirds. Many species, such as Kirtland's Warbler, are endangered or threatened, partially because of cowbird parasitism. A male is shown in the photo to the right.
Habitat: Prefers open to semi-open habitats, including woodland edges, riparian areas, farms, prairies, and residential areas.
Diet: Seeds and insects.
Nesting: May through August.
Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map
Song: Series of low bubbly notes followed by thin whistling.
Migrations: Populations throughout most of the Northern U.S. and higher elevations of the West move southward in the fall.
Feeders: Assorted seeds and grain.
Similar Species: Adult male distinctive, with obvious brown head. At a distance could possibly be confused with Brewer's Blackbird.
Status: Much more widespread and abundant than before man's alteration of the landscape and introduction of grazing cattle.
Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Brown-headed Cowbird
2) Cornell University's "All About Birds - Brown-headed Cowbird"
3) eNature.com: Brown-headed Cowbird
Photo Information: July 4th, 2004 -- Western Minnehaha County -- Terry Sohl
Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Brown-headed Cowbird photos.
|
|
| South Dakota Status: Common summer breeding resident throughout the state. |
Proud Member Of:
Range Map Reference: NatureServe
Click here for other references used to compile this page
Please mail any comments/suggestions/additional links for this page to: Terry L. Sohl
This page was last edited on 02/03/08
