Great topic, Randy, and very much up our alley since this year we have a Cowbird mating pair hanging out around our place.

The details you provided about them are fascinating. We don't know which bird nest they have usurped, but they are constantly in our front garden using the birdbath there, and also in the back garden, using both bird baths there.

I'm not too fond of the Grackles because they tend to behave like bullies and attack smaller birds. Also, although they are very showy to look at their call is not that attractive.

I appreciate the position of all the wildlife in the food chain and for the most part, value their presence. With the messy raccoon and destructive squirrels being at the bottom of the list.

Added to my list of unloved are Hornets. They are rather scary and we discourage nests in our area.