495. Molothrus ater 
COWBIRD. $8 inches 
Male. Above and below metallic black; whole ead rich brown. 
Female. Above brownish gray, lighter below. 
Is also called Cow Bunting. A walker, often seen in open pastures 
following cattle to get insect food, hence its commonname. Large 
flocks frequently perch in the tree tops. Common in Massachu- 
setts. Arrives the last week in March. 
Note. A whistle and a few short, harsh notes. 
Nest. None; lays its eggs in the nests of other birds. 
Breeds. Throughout New England. 
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