ParsingphaseBrood Parasitism in action, this evening:
A juvenile #BrownHeadedCowbird begs food from an adult #ChippingSparrow likely a third of its size. Brown-headed Cowbirds are obligate breed parasites; that is, their young only develop in the nests of other birds. Chances are this one grew up in the sparrow's nest from which it either out-competed or displaced the sparrow's own young. Once it fledged, the sparrow remains convinced the cowbird is its own young and continues to feed it.
#Birds #BHCO #CHSP
A juvenile #BrownHeadedCowbird begs food from an adult #ChippingSparrow likely a third of its size. Brown-headed Cowbirds are obligate breed parasites; that is, their young only develop in the nests of other birds. Chances are this one grew up in the sparrow's nest from which it either out-competed or displaced the sparrow's own young. Once it fledged, the sparrow remains convinced the cowbird is its own young and continues to feed it.
#Birds #BHCO #CHSP
