Question

birds have a reputation as excellent parents. they expend a great deal of effort in building nests in which to lay their eggs. they patiently incubate the eggs, keeping them warm and safe until they hatch. birds also bring food to their newly hatched offspring until the baby birds are independent. however, some unusual birds, known as brood parasites, don’t provide any parental care for their young. perhaps the most famous brood parasite is the cuckoo. instead of building a nest, the cuckoo lays her eggs in the nest of another species with similar - looking eggs. the female cuckoo simply removes an egg laid by the host female, lays her own egg, and then leaves, expecting the host bird to care for the imposter. what is the main, or central, idea of the passage? most birds build nests for their young, incubate the eggs, and are generally devoted parents. unlike most species of birds, brood parasites such as the cuckoo don’t build nests. unlike most species of birds, brood parasites such as the cuckoo don’t provide any parental care.

Explanation:

The passage first describes how most birds are excellent parents (building nests, incubating eggs, caring for young), then introduces brood parasites (like cuckoos) that don't provide parental care, instead laying eggs in other birds' nests. The third option ("Unlike most species of birds, brood parasites such as the cuckoo don’t provide any parental care") accurately captures this central idea by contrasting brood parasites with most birds in terms of parental care. The first option is incorrect as it focuses on nest - building/incubation (not the main contrast), and the second option only mentions nest - building, not the key point about parental care.

Answer:

Unlike most species of birds, brood parasites such as the cuckoo don’t provide any parental care.