Facts, Information, Scientific Name of Cuckoo
Let us learn about the bird with a melodious call and parasitic behaviour that saves its energy to Thrive
Name –Cuckoo
Scientific name- Cuculidae
Size- 15cm-18cm
Type- Aves
Distribution & Habitat-
Cuckoos are widespread Birds and some of the species are even migratory. In the countries of Europe, Asia, Africa, Australia, etc, we can see Cuckoos in deserts, Forests, and Grasslands, and mainly on Trees as they are Arboreal Birds, that dwell mostly on Trees. Some species are nocturnal, which means they are active at night.
These Large body birds with curved bills and prominently long tails consume Insects like Hairy Caterpillars, Lizards, small snakes and Rodents. To eat they catch the prey and rub them against a hard surface like branches of trees to crush it and finally swallow them.
Cuckoo birds also consume Fruits.
Breeding.
The majority of Cuckoo species are monogamous birds, they choose one partner for life.
The Cuckoo calls are specific to attract a mate. They have a very high pitch but melodious recognisable calls.
Nests are located on tree bushes and shrubs. The nest is globular or dome-shaped and made up of Twigs and Grasses.
Brood Parasitism-
Cuckoo birds are mostly Brood Parasites. It is the behaviour when a Female Cuckoo places her egg on the nests of other Birds. The Egg is placed where the eggshell appearance is similar. And the Egg is raised by another Bird Female. This Behavior is the ‘Instinctive Behaviour’ among these Birds. It is something that they follow on their own. It is not a ‘Learned’ or taught Behaviour. The reason for this behaviour is to save the energy of raising the young ones, and avoid the activities of Hunting, Protecting, Incubation, and maintaining Territory, instead just enhancing the population.
Also See ⇒ Ibis Facts