Molothrus bonariensis; Print; The shiny cowbird (Molothrus bonariensis) is a passerine bird in the New World family Icteridae. It breeds in most of South America apart from the most dense jungles; mountains and deserts (although spreading into these habitats as they are modified by humans); the coldest southernmost regions (e.g. Tierra del Fuego); and on Trinidad and Tobago. It has relatively recently colonised Chile and many Caribbean islands; and has reached the United States; where it is probably breeding in southern Florida. Northern and southernmost populations are partially migratory. It is a bird associated with open woodland and cultivation. The male's song is a purr and whistle; purr purr purrte-tseeeee. The male's call is a sharp whistled tsee-tsee; but the female makes a harsh rattle.; 1700-1880