Shiny Cowbird

The Shiny Cowbird is expanding its range in Ecuador, now found in western lowlands and inter-Andean valleys, including urban and agricultural areas, and recently recorded as high as 2,800 meters near Quito. It is locally common in open and disturbed habitats, often seen foraging on the ground or perched conspicuously, and is especially associated with human-altered landscapes. The species is listed as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a broad and growing range across South America and a population benefiting from deforestation and agricultural expansion. Natural history observations highlight its obligate brood parasitism—frequently targeting Rufous-collared Sparrows—and its sexually dimorphic plumage, with glossy black males and dull brown females.