Details
Cuculus canorus
The common cuckoo is a diurnal bird that breeds across Eurasia and migrates toward Africa. Solitary habits, a clear call, and brood parasitism define it.
Map: Ecoregions 2017 © RESOLVE (CC BY 4.0) · Natural Earth (PD)
It uses open woodland, grassland, marsh edges, and farmland. Areas with shrubs, low cover, and suitable host songbirds are important.
Wingspan is about 55-65 cm and weight about 100-130 g. A slim body, long tail, gray upperparts, and barred underparts can recall a small hawk.
Active by day, it is mostly solitary outside breeding encounters. Females watch host nests and lay quickly when the chance appears.
It is carnivorous, feeding mainly on caterpillars and other insects. It spots prey from perches or open edges and takes it with quick movements.
It does not build its own nest, instead laying eggs in nests of other species. The chick is raised by the host parents.
Its status is listed as Least Concern. Migration and breeding success are closely tied to host birds and seasonal insect peaks.
