Which of the following birds exhibit brood parasitism?

Question

Which of the following birds exhibit brood parasitism?

I. Indigobird

II. Common Cuckoo

III. Honeyguide

IV. Eagle

V. Pigeon

VI. Cowbirds

Choose the correct answer:

1. A. I, II, IV, V and VI
2. B. II, III, IV and V
3. C. I, V and VI
4. D. I, II, III and VI (Correct answer)

Correct Answer

Option D — I, II, III and VI

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is I, II, III and VI.

Key Points

• Brood parasitism (laying eggs in another species' nest): Indigobird (I ✓ — parasitizes finches), Common Cuckoo (II ✓ — the classic example), Honeyguide (III ✓ — parasitizes bee-eaters), Cowbirds (VI ✓ — well-known brood parasites of the Americas).
• Eagles (IV) and Pigeons (V) raise their own young and do not practice brood parasitism.