Watercolor portrait of Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater)

What does the Brown-headed Cowbird song sound like?

Molothrus ater
Song Common Resident

Play the real Brown-headed Cowbird song, the "liquid gurgling 'glug-glug-gleee", and learn what to listen for.

“liquid gurgling 'glug-glug-gleee”

What the Brown-headed Cowbird song sounds like

A bubbly, watery, gurgling series of notes that rises in pitch at the end. Often given from an exposed perch during breeding season.

“liquid gurgling 'glug-glug-gleee”

How to find the bird singing it

Found in a variety of open and semi-open habitats including grasslands, woodland edges, fields, pastures, meadows, and suburban areas. Often associated with grazing livestock, which flush insects from vegetation. Avoids dense unbroken forests.

  • Head (Male): Distinctive glossy brown head that contrasts sharply with black body.
  • Body (Male): Glossy black body with iridescent sheen in good light.
  • Female: Plain grayish-brown throughout, slightly paler below, with fine streaking on underparts.

When you'll hear it

Breeding

Males display by puffing up feathers, spreading wings and tail, and bowing deeply while singing.

Non-breeding

Similar to breeding plumage but may show some brown feather edges on male's black body.

Juvenile

Similar to adult female but with buffy feather edges giving a scaly appearance.

Brown-headed Cowbird song FAQ

What does a Brown-headed Cowbird song sound like?
A bubbly, watery, gurgling series of notes that rises in pitch at the end. Often given from an exposed perch during breeding season. Birders write it as "liquid gurgling 'glug-glug-gleee".
How do I tell a Brown-headed Cowbird from a Brewer's Blackbird by ear?
Brewer's Blackbird: Male has entirely black head (not brown) with iridescent purple sheen.; Female is darker, more uniformly colored than female cowbird..
When is the best time to hear the Brown-headed Cowbird song?
Most active during daylight hours. Breeding season extends from April through July in most areas.

More Brown-headed Cowbird sounds

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