Northern Hawk-Cuckoo
NameNorthern Hawk-Cuckoo
Common NameNorthern Hawk-Cuckoo
Scientific NameHierococcyx hyperythrus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)52
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)100
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features a dark slate-grey to blackish cap and upperparts, with a prominent yellow eye-ring. The throat and breast are white, often with a rufous wash on the belly and flanks, sometimes showing faint barring. The legs and feet are yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a distinctive, often repeated 'ku-weer' or 'ko-weer' call, which can be quite loud and carries through the forest.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Northern Hawk-Cuckoo breeds in East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and northeastern China, and migrates to wintering grounds in Southeast Asia, such as the Philippines and Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesDark cap, Yellow eye-ring, Dark upperparts, Pale underparts with rufous wash/barring on flanks, Hawk-like silhouette, Yellow legs
Description
This medium-sized cuckoo exhibits a hawk-like appearance, characterized by its dark head and upperparts contrasting with a paler throat and breast. It is an arboreal species, typically found in various forest types where it forages for insects.
