Brown-headed Cowbird
Molothrus ater

Size: 7 1/2"

Male: (Shown) A glossy black bird, reminiscent of a Red-winged Blackbird. Chocolate brown head with a pointed, sharp gray bill.

Female: Dull brown bird with bill similar to male.

Juvenile: Similar to female, only dull gray in color with a streaked chest.

Nest: No nest. Lays eggs in the nests of other birds. Brood size varies widely.

Eggs: 5-7; bluish with brown markings

Incubation: 10-13 days; host bird incubates eggs

Fledging: 10-11 days; host bird feeds young

Migration: The Brown-headed Cowbird can be found in St. Charles County year round.

Food: Insects, seeds, and will come to seed feeders.