African Cuckoo-Hawk
NameAfrican Cuckoo-Hawk
Common NameAfrican Cuckoo-Hawk
Scientific NameAviceda cuculoides
FamilyAccipitridae
Wingspan (cm)95
Length (cm)40
Weight (g)280
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark grey head and upperparts, often with a short crest. The underparts are white with broad rufous-brown barring across the belly and flanks. The eyes are bright yellow, and the cere and feet are greyish-blue.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, high-pitched 'kweee-kweee' or 'kew-kew-kew' call, often repeated.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesCrested head, Bright yellow eyes, Prominent rufous-brown barring on white underparts, Cuckoo-like flight pattern
Description
This medium-sized raptor is characterized by its distinctive crest, prominent bright yellow eyes, and barred underparts. It typically perches upright on branches, often in a concealed position, and hunts from above.
