Fan-tailed Cuckoo
NameFan-tailed Cuckoo
Common NameFan-tailed Cuckoo
Scientific NameCacomantis flabelliformis
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)60
Plumage DetailsAdults have a slate-grey head, nape, back, and wings. The throat, breast, and belly are a rich rufous-orange, fading to paler on the lower belly, with white undertail coverts. The long tail is dark grey to black with prominent white barring on the outer feathers. A distinct yellow eye-ring is present.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a mournful, descending whistle, often described as 'pee-o-wit' or 'pee-o-weer', repeated several times. It also produces a trilling call.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in eastern and south-eastern Australia, Tasmania, New Zealand, New Caledonia, Vanuatu, and Fiji.
Identifying FeaturesSlate-grey head and back, Rufous breast and belly, Long, black and white barred tail, Yellow eye-ring
Description
This medium-sized cuckoo is characterized by its slate-grey head and back, contrasting with a rufous breast and belly. It has a distinctive long, black-and-white barred tail, often fanned during display. Primarily an insectivore, it inhabits a variety of wooded areas across its range.
