Common Cuckoo
Image: AW Klopper (cc-by-nc)
NameCommon Cuckoo
Common NameCommon Cuckoo
Scientific NameCuculus canorus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)57.5
Length (cm)33
Weight (g)117.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a grey head, neck, and upperparts, with a white belly and dark barring on the flanks. Females can be similar to males or have a rufous morph with rufous barring on the upperparts. Both sexes feature a prominent yellow eye-ring and a black bill with a striking orange gape, as seen in the image.
Vocalization / CallThe male's iconic two-note 'cu-coo' call is highly distinctive and gives the species its name. Females produce a bubbling trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, grassland, moorland, reedbeds
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of Europe and Asia, migrating to winter in Africa and southern Asia.
Identifying Featuresdistinctive 'cu-coo' call, hawk-like appearance in flight, grey upperparts and barred underparts, yellow eye-ring, orange gape (visible when mouth open)
Description
The Common Cuckoo is a medium-sized migratory bird renowned for its brood parasitic breeding strategy, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species. Adults exhibit a sleek, hawk-like appearance with grey upperparts and barred underparts, often seen in open woodlands and heathlands.
