Cowbirds Utilize Fragmented Forests Effectively By

Question

Cowbirds utilize fragmented forests effectively by
A) feeding on the fruits of shrubs that tend to grow at the forest/open-field interface.
B) parasitizing the nests of forest birds, and feeding on open-field insects.
C) roosting in forest trees, and nesting in grassy fields.
D) outcompeting other songbird species in fragmented communities.
E) using forest cover to escape from predators in their normal grassland habitat.

Accepted Answer

Cowbirds are known for parasitizing the nests of other bird species by laying their eggs in them. They prefer forest-edge habitats and open fields, and their young feed on insects in these areas. Therefore, fragmented forests can be useful for cowbirds as they provide both forest and open-field habitats in close proximity, allowing them to successfully parasitize nests and find food.