Great-Tailed Grackle or Bronzed Cowbird?

General appearance

Meet the bronzed cowbird, a dynamic marvel in the bird world! Flaunting an innate fashion sense, this bird adorns a full-bodied, glossy black-plumaged coat that varies from dark to shimmering bronzed-brown. It's renowned for the blazing red eyes that contrast attractively with its overall dark exterior. Defined and distinct, their robust bill and large stature separate them from other cowbird types.

Male vs female

While both sexes of bronzed cowbirds carry an air of mystery with their dashing black feathers and vivacious eyes, males step up their look! They appear larger, more intimidating, with a pronounced gloss of tawny bronze. Still, our ladies are not left behind; they have a subtle charm, being slightly smaller with a less glossy, but still beautiful brownish-black plumage. Each sex carries its distinctive flair to the bird party!

Juvenile

The juveniles tag along, less flashy but insistently noticeable. They are a duller brown than the adult female and do not yet possess the iconic piercing red eyes. Instead, their eyes take a more relaxed gray-brown shade. But hold on tight, though less showy, these young cowbirds evolve into their striking adult colors as they mature. So, spotting a bronzed cowbird chick could mean being an audience to an unforgettable transformation!

Primary habitat

The bronzed cowbird generally prefers very open habitats in lowlands such as farmland, semi-open country, and areas around cattle feedlots. It also roosts in brushy woods.

Additional range

During the breeding season, this bird wanders widely, adopting a larger range of habitats including forest edges, deserts, and open woods in mountains.

Natural diet

The bronzed cowbird primarily consumes seeds, focusing on those from grasses and weeds, as well as waste grain. Occasionally, it includes berries in its diet. It is also known to eat various insects such as caterpillars, beetles, flies, and others. Snails and spiders are part of their diet as well. Notably, female bronzed cowbirds may rely on snails for calcium, especially when laying eggs.

Bird feeders

At bird feeders, bronzed cowbirds might consume seeds typically offered, such as sunflower seeds or millet, which are popular choices in many feeders. However, their specific preference at feeders is not as documented as their natural diet.