Are cowbirds protected in ny

Yes, cowbirds are protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, which applies in New York and throughout the United States. This law prohibits the killing, capturing, or possession of migratory birds without a permit. However, their status as a species often leads to conflicts with other birds, particularly Songbirds, due to their brood parasitism behavior. While they are protected, management practices may vary depending on specific situations involving their impact on native bird populations.