495. Molothrus atei 



COWBIRD. 8 inches 



Male. Above and below metallic black ; whole head 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 common name. 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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