Cowbird
(noun)
A North American bird species known for laying its eggs in the nests of other birds, especially those of small songbirds.
Origin:
Derived from the practice of the bird laying eggs in the nests of other birds, often near cattle.
Examples:
- The cowbird is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other birds.
- The cowbird is known for its brown plumage and glossy black head.
- The cowbird"s eggs are usually larger than the host"s eggs, and hatch earlier.
- The cowbird chicks are often larger and more aggressive than the host chicks, and can outcompete them for food.
- The cowbird's brood parasitism is a controversial and debated behavior in the ornithological community.