Brown-headed cowbirds do not raise their own young, instead laying their eggs in the nests of other bird species. As a result, young cowbirds are not exposed to species-typical visual and auditory information like other birds. Despite this, cowbirds are able to develop species-typical singing, social, and breeding behaviors. A 2017 study demonstrated that cowbird brains are wired to respond to the vocalizations of other cowbirds, allowing young to find and join flocks of their own species.
I knew about this bird’s “bad”habit of putting its eggs in other birds’ nests, but that’s fascinating about how the young ones learn to find their kind.
I knew about this bird’s “bad”habit of putting its eggs in other birds’ nests, but that’s fascinating about how the young ones learn to find their kind.
It really is fascinating, birds have been on Earth way ahead of humans by eons. We have so much to learn from them. Thanks, Linda. 🙂
Interesting, like cuckoos here.
Thank you very much, Susan. 🙂
They are attractive, in their way. I get a kick out of seeing them ride atop a Bison’s back, picking insects from its hair.
Thanks, Jane. 🙂
Interesting info about a lovely bird!
Thanks so much, Indira. 🙂
How interesting HJ, very similar to the Cuckoos
Thank you, Ashley. 🙂
Reblogged this on Wolf's Birding and Bonsai Blog.