The giant cowbird is a large passerine bird in the New World family Icteridae. It breeds from southern Mexico south to northern Argentina, and on Trinidad and Tobago. It may have relatively recently colonised the latter island. It is a brood parasite and lays its eggs in the nests of other birds.
Region
Central and South America
Typical Environment
Occurs from southern Mexico through Central America into Colombia, Venezuela, the Guianas, much of the Amazon Basin, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Brazil, Paraguay, and northern Argentina, and also on Trinidad and Tobago. Favors open and semi-open habitats such as forest edges, riverine woodland, pastures, plantations, and agricultural mosaics. It is often found near colonies of oropendolas and caciques, where it parasitizes nests. Generally avoids dense unbroken interior rainforest, except along edges and clearings.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The giant cowbird is a brood parasite that typically lays its eggs in the communal nests of oropendolas and caciques. Unlike some other cowbirds, its chicks often grow alongside host young, and adults may even reduce botfly infestations at host colonies by removing larvae. It is notably large for a cowbird, with a long tail and glossy plumage in males. It ranges widely from southern Mexico through much of South America and on Trinidad and Tobago.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
strong flier with direct, rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Often forms loose flocks and associates with host species’ nesting colonies. A brood parasite, the female lays eggs in nests of oropendolas and caciques, usually within large colony trees. Adults may visit host nests frequently, sometimes removing parasitic larvae which can benefit the colony.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include harsh, wheezy whistles, chatters, and rattling notes. Songs are varied and somewhat mechanical-sounding, with abrupt phrases delivered from exposed perches.
