The cowbird is considered a brood parasite. That is, they do not build their own nests and raise their own young. Rather, their eggs are laid in the nests of other birds, such as phoebes, sparrows and blackbirds. This year, a male has chosen our computer window as its favored place to do its singing display. All day long, this bird sings to its own reflection....

The display starts with the ruffling of feathers.

Then the wings are spread while the song notes are sung.
There's usually a couple of hopped steps in there too.

Finished off with a wiping of the beak.
Photos taken June 3, 2004.

The female is rather plain looking next to the male. Photo taken June 8, 2004. Notice how dirty the window has gotten in just a few days!

Closer shots of the female. Photos taken June 7, 2004.