Skip to main content

Shiny Cowbird Identification

Looking for ID Help?

Our free app offers quick ID help with global coverage.

Try Merlin Bird ID

The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    A stout songbird with a short, thick-based, finely pointed bill and moderately long wings and tail.

    Relative Size

    Slightly larger than an Eastern Bluebird, smaller than a Red-winged Blackbird.

    Relative Sizerobin sizedrobin-sized

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes

Regional Differences

Ornithologists recognize at least seven subspecies in the Caribbean and South America, all rather similar to one another. Only the smallest subspecies, minimus, is known in the United States.