Reference

Indigobirds (Vidua species) are known for their unique reproductive strategy as brood parasites specifically targeting estrildid finches. Here's how their reproductive relationship works:

1. Brood Parasitism: Indigobirds lay their eggs in the nests of estrildid finches. The host finch then unwittingly raises the indigobird chick alongside its own offspring.

2. Song Mimicry: Indigobirds mimic the songs of the specific estrildid finch species they parasitize. This mimicry helps indigobirds integrate into the finch's environment as they mature.

3. Nestling Behavior: Although the mouth patterns of indigobird nestlings mimic their host's chicks, they don't always replicate the specific begging calls of the hosts. This behavior varies among indigobird species.

4. Cospeciation and Host Switch: Some associations may have originated through cospeciation with hosts, or by later colonizing new host species. These adaptive strategies ensure their survival and reproduction through parasitism.

For further details, you can explore the resource at Springer Link.