Common Cuckoo
Image: white_cheeked_barbet (cc-by)
NameCommon Cuckoo
Common NameCommon Cuckoo
Scientific NameCuculus canorus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)57
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)120
Plumage DetailsAdult males are grey on the head, back, and breast, with white underparts barred with black. Females can be similar or have a rufous-brown (hepatic) morph. Juveniles are brownish-grey, barred all over, with a white patch on the nape and often a pale eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallThe male's call is a well-known 'cuck-oo' sound, typically repeated. Females have a bubbling trill or 'kwik-kwik-kwik' call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, grassland, heathland, marsh, agricultural land
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of Europe and Asia, migrating to Africa and Southeast Asia for the winter. It is a widespread summer visitor in its breeding range.
Identifying Featuresdistinctive 'cuck-oo' call, hawk-like silhouette in flight, long tail, barred underparts (especially females and juveniles), brood parasitic behavior
Description
The Common Cuckoo is a medium-sized, slender bird known for its distinctive call and brood parasitic breeding strategy. It lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species, leaving the host parents to raise its young. Adults have a hawk-like appearance, while juveniles, like the one pictured, are often barred.
