Red-chested Cuckoo
NameRed-chested Cuckoo
Common NameRed-chested Cuckoo
Scientific NameCuculus solitarius
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)49
Length (cm)29
Weight (g)70
Plumage DetailsAdults have a dark grey head, nape, and upperparts. The throat and upper breast are a striking rufous (reddish-brown), transitioning to white underparts with dark barring on the belly and flanks. It has a yellow eye-ring, and the bill is dark with a yellow base to the lower mandible. The tail is dark with white spots on the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallFamous for its loud, clear, three-note call, often transcribed as 'Piet-my-vrou' or 'Pee-pee-peew'. The call is repetitive and a characteristic sound of its habitat, particularly during the breeding season.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Red-chested Cuckoo is found throughout much of sub-Saharan Africa. It is a migratory species, moving seasonally within the continent, typically breeding in southern Africa and migrating north during the non-breeding season.
Identifying Featuresgrey head and back, rufous chest, barred belly, yellow eye-ring, distinctive three-note call ('Piet-my-vrou')
Description
The Red-chested Cuckoo is a medium-sized cuckoo known for its distinctive call and brood parasitic behavior. It has a grey head and back, a prominent rufous chest, and barred underparts. This species is often heard before it is seen, especially during the breeding season.
