Little Cuckoo
NameLittle Cuckoo
Common NameLittle Cuckoo
Scientific NameCoccycua minuta
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)26
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsPredominantly rufous-chestnut on the upperparts, head, and breast, fading to a paler, grayish-buff on the belly. It has a long, dark tail with white tips on the outer feathers, and a striking bright red iris. The bill is entirely yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of soft, cooing notes, often described as 'coo-coo-coo-coo' or a rapid 'kwek-kwek-kwek' that accelerates.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, from southern Mexico through Central America, and extensively across northern and central South America, reaching as far south as northern Argentina.
Identifying Featuresrufous plumage, bright red eyes, yellow bill, long dark tail with white tips, small size for a cuckoo
Description
The Little Cuckoo is a small, slender cuckoo characterized by its overall rufous plumage, bright red eyes, and a distinctive yellow bill. It typically forages secretively in dense vegetation, often near water, primarily consuming insects.
