Common Cuckoo
NameCommon Cuckoo
Common NameCommon Cuckoo
Scientific NameCuculus canorus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)57
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)117.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males are slate-grey on the head, back, and chest, with a white belly barred black. Adult females can be similar (grey morph) or rufous-brown on the back and chest with rufous barring on the white belly (rufous morph). Juveniles are typically dark grey-brown above, mottled with rufous or white, and heavily barred below, often with a white patch on the nape.
Vocalization / CallThe male's iconic two-note 'cuck-oo' call, often repeated, is highly distinctive. Females have a bubbling trill or a 'kwik-kwik-kwik' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswoodland, forest edge, heathland, grassland, marshland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe and Asia during the breeding season, migrating to Africa and Southeast Asia for the winter.
Identifying FeaturesLong, slender body and tail, Grey upperparts and barred underparts (adults), Distinctive 'cuck-oo' call of the male, Brood parasitic behavior, Often mimics a small raptor in flight
Description
The Common Cuckoo is a medium-sized, slender bird known for its distinctive call and brood parasitic breeding strategy. It has a long tail and often resembles a small raptor in flight, particularly a Eurasian Sparrowhawk.
