Shiny Cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis)

Subspecies: minimus, Length: 7.5" - 8" (17-21.5 cm), long tail, roundish wings; Males are all black with a purple-blue iridescence, Females have a dull brownish plumage that is sometimes paler on the underparts, Juveniles look like the female but streaks on breast and may have a yellowish wash, especially on the face. Habitat: pastures, low grassy areas, agricultural Areas; Statue: Very common, island-wide; 

Comments: A brood parasite, that is, like most other cowbirds, it lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species leaving them to rear their chicks; Locally, the  Carib Grackles aka Black Bird, is the primary host, but includes Barbados bullfinch, Yellow Warbler, and Black-face Grassquit.

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Adult Males - glossy iridescence Purplish-black, black iris

Female -  dull brownish plumage

Juvenile - has a yellowish wash, especially on the face

Juvenile - streaks on breast 

A brood parasite

Female Shiny Cowbird about to lay its eggs in the nest of a Carib Grackle

Host - Carib Grackle searching for food to feed noisy Shiny Cowbird chick

Host - Barbados Bullfinch (L) with Shiny Cowbird Chick (R)

Host- Yellow Warbler, feed a Shiny Cowbird chick 

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