COW-PEN BIRD

Molothrus ater


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IUCN Red List Status: Least Concern (LC)

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COW-PEN BIRD

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Molothrus ater (Boddaert, 1783)

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Behavior

Source and Additional Information
Animal Diversity Web external link
 
Jennifer Roof
Some rights reserved
Some rights reserved

The cowbird rarely hops when on the ground, preferring to walk. It is often found in mixed-species flocks with other blackbirds, such as the Common Grackle. The cowbird gets its name from its close association with livestock, such as horses and cattle, which disturb insects on the ground when feeding. This allows cowbirds easy access to their food. Because cowbirds have a significant impact on the reproductive success of other species, many other bird species have adapted and can recognize this threat, acting aggressively to cowbirds near their nesting trerritory.