Cowbirds lay their eggs in the nests of smaller birds. The fast-developing cowbird chicks hatch first, then push the other baby chicks out of the nest as they hatch. Which interaction best describes cowbird behavior?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cowbirds exhibit parasitism behavior as they use the smaller birds' nests to lay their eggs and exploit their parental care efforts without providing any benefits in return. Pushing out the other chicks and getting all the resources from the host parents is also an example of exploitation.

Cowbirds Lay Their Eggs in the Nests of Smaller Birds