Pallid Cuckoo
NamePallid Cuckoo
Common NamePallid Cuckoo
Scientific NameCacomantis pallidus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)31
Weight (g)95
Plumage DetailsJuveniles and females, like the bird pictured, typically exhibit mottled brown and grey upperparts with pale, often barred, underparts. Adult males are generally plain grey above and white below, often with a prominent yellow eye-ring. All have a relatively long tail.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, mournful, ascending whistle, often described as a series of clear, rising notes that can sound like 'too-too-too-too'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across mainland Australia, Tasmania, and parts of New Guinea and Indonesia. It is migratory within Australia, moving south for breeding during the spring and summer.
Identifying Featuresmottled plumage (juveniles/females), long, graduated tail, slender body shape, distinctive ascending whistle call, yellow eye-ring (adults)
Description
The Pallid Cuckoo is a medium-sized cuckoo characterized by its slender build and often mottled plumage, particularly in juveniles and females. It is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species. This species is known for its distinctive, mournful call.
