Distribution Map
Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo
Chalcites basalis
NativeStatus
CommonRarity
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Species Description
The Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoo is a sparrow-sized bird native to Australia. It features olive-bronze upperparts with a metallic sheen and white underparts marked by incomplete dark barring. Known for its descending whistle call, this adaptable species inhabits environments ranging from coastal forests to arid woodlands.
Fun Facts
Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoos primarily parasitize dome-shaped nests built by fairy-wrens and thornbills.
1. Bold white eyebrow stripe above a dark eye-stripe curving down the neck.
2. White underparts with incomplete dark barring concentrated on the upper breast.
3. Persistent descending whistle call ("fee-ew") often repeated in sequences.
As brood parasites, Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoos lay their eggs in the nests of small birds such as fairy-wrens and thornbills. Their chicks hatch early, ejecting host eggs or nestlings within two days to monopolize parental care. Southern populations migrate north during winter, while northern populations remain resident year-round.
Horsfield's Bronze-Cuckoos prefer open woodlands, scrubby areas, and urban parks across most of Australia. They are often seen perched on exposed branches or shrubs during spring and summer mornings when males call frequently. These birds forage actively both in low vegetation and on the ground, feeding primarily on insects.
Physical Attributes
Height
18 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds32%
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