STATUS: Locally common.
HABITAT: Inhabits mostly open country with occasional tree patches or large tall shrubs. Prefers humid, hot climate, often in areas where cattle are grazed and is common in areas of human habitation.
SPECIAL HABITAT REQUIREMENTS: Open areas with scattered trees or shrubs.
NEST: Builds no nest; generally lays its eggs in the nests of other birds, preferably those nesting in brush, semi-open to open ranch, farm, and residential areas.
FOOD: Eats weed and grass seeds, grain, and insects that are gleaned from the ground. Also eats insects from the skin of livestock. Commonly feeds and roosts in large flocks.
REFERENCES: Oberholser 1974b.