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)117.5
Plumage DetailsAdult males are slate-grey on the head, back, and chest, with white underparts finely barred with dark grey. Adult females can be similar to males or have a rufous (hepatic) morph. Juveniles, like the one pictured, have brownish-grey upperparts with rufous feather edges, a white patch on the nape, and heavily barred white underparts.
Vocalization / CallThe male's call is a distinctive, resonant 'cuck-oo', which gives the bird its name. Females have a bubbling, trilling call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, heathland, marsh
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeA widespread summer migrant across Europe and Asia, breeding from the British Isles eastwards to Japan. It winters in sub-Saharan Africa and parts of South Asia.
Identifying FeaturesDistinctive 'cuck-oo' call (male), Grey upperparts and barred underparts (adults), Hawk-like silhouette in flight, Brood parasitic behavior (lays eggs in other birds' nests), Juveniles have browner plumage with extensive barring and often a white nape patch
Description
The Common Cuckoo is a medium-sized, slender bird known for its distinctive two-note call and brood parasitic behavior. Adults typically have grey upperparts and barred underparts, while juveniles are browner with more extensive barring.
