Abstract
I observed a Western Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma californica) consume a Golden-cheeked Warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia) nestling and a Brown-headed Cowbird (Molothrus ater) nestling in northwestern Travis County, Texas, in May 1995. During a 4.5-hr period after brood destruction, warbler adults repeatedly brought insects to the depredated nest, and during each visit they appeared to search for the nestlings in the nest area and adjacent trees while carrying the insects. When the jay subsequently returned to the nest to take an unhatched egg, the female warbler performed a distraction display. My observations indicate that, in some cases, parental feeding behavior and nest defense can continue for a short time after brood loss.
Published Version
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