Striped Cuckoo
NameStriped Cuckoo
Common NameStriped Cuckoo
Scientific NameTapera naevia
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)29.5
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are brown with heavy black streaking, especially on the back and crown, topped by a prominent rufous-brown crest. The face features a dark eye-stripe and a pale supercilium. Underparts are whitish to buff, and the tail is long and graduated.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, clear, whistled 'pee-you' or 'whee-whee-whee-whee' call, often described as melancholic or mournful, repeated several times.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread throughout Central and South America, from southern Mexico south to northern Argentina and Uruguay.
Identifying FeaturesProminent rufous-brown crest, Streaked brown upperparts, Long graduated tail, Distinctive whistled call, Brood parasitic behavior
Description
The Striped Cuckoo is a medium-sized cuckoo characterized by its prominent rufous-brown crest and streaked brown upperparts. It is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species, and is often heard more than seen.
