Great Spotted Cuckoo
NameGreat Spotted Cuckoo
Common NameGreat Spotted Cuckoo
Scientific NameClamator glandarius
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)54.5
Length (cm)37
Weight (g)145
Plumage DetailsAdults have a black cap and crest, black upperparts heavily spotted with white, and a pale orange-buff throat and breast fading to a white belly. The long, graduated tail features rufous patches on the outer tail feathers, visible in flight or when fanned.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a loud, harsh, and repeated 'kwaa-kwaa-kwaa' or 'kweer-kweer-kweer' call. It also produces a bubbling 'kik-kik-kik' sound, especially during breeding season.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, the Middle East, and much of Africa south of the Sahara. Northern populations are migratory, wintering in sub-Saharan Africa.
Identifying Featuresblack crest, black upperparts with white spots, pale orange-buff throat and breast, long graduated tail, rufous patches on outer tail feathers
Description
The Great Spotted Cuckoo is a medium-sized cuckoo characterized by its distinctive crest and spotted plumage. It is a brood parasite, laying its eggs primarily in the nests of corvids, such as magpies and crows. This species is often found in open woodlands, savannas, and cultivated areas.
