Abstract
ABSTRACT Nest parasitism by Brown-headed Cowbirds (Molothrus ater) negatively affects nest production and nest success of the majority of their hosts. However, it is unclear what effects cowbird fledglings have on host broods during the postfledging period. We monitored 65 nests of Ovenbirds (Seiurus aurocapilla) from 2012–2014 in central Missouri, 49% of which were parasitized by Brown-headed Cowbirds. We used radio-telemetry to track daily movements, survival, and parental care for 13 Ovenbird fledglings from parasitized nests that fledged cowbirds and 21 Ovenbird fledglings from non-parasitized nests. Clutch size and nest productivity were lower in parasitized nests, but mean nestling mass at fledging and total brood size (host and parasite young) did not differ between parasitized and non-parasitized nests. All mortalities occurred within the first 10 days after fledging. Estimated postfledging cumulative survival and observed adult care were similar between parasitism groups. There was no difference ...
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