Bird Description

Scarce but locally common in open areas, particularly near cattle and feed lots. The largest cowbird, a weird bird that seems to have a variety of postures. Large-chested with a pointed head, it will suddenly hunch its back, puffing its neck feathers out to form a ruff. ?: hovers in unique breeding display. ID: Very thickset bird with broad, muscular neck. Heavy, pointed bill extends onto forehead. Bold red iris striking on all but youngest birds. Ad ?: very dark with contrasting eye and glossy blue wings and tail. Ad ?: a browner and duller version of ? with very little contrast in plumage. Juv: similar to ?. ?: grows adult-like feathers through first winter.