Distribution Map
Oriental Cuckoo
Cuculus optatus
NativeStatus
Fairly CommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Oriental Cuckoo is a seasonal visitor to Australia, arriving from its northern breeding grounds in Asia. This medium-sized cuckoo has a sleek, falcon-like appearance. Despite its size, it's a secretive bird that's rarely seen, often revealing its presence only when darting between trees in Australia's northern forests during summer months.
Fun Facts
Oriental Cuckoos can mimic the plumage of sparrowhawks, which may help them intimidate host birds when laying eggs.
1. Listen for its distinctive bubbling call, especially at night or early morning
2. Look for quick, direct flight between trees in northern Australian forests
3. Note the gray plumage and barred underparts, similar to a small falcon
Oriental Cuckoos are brood parasites, laying their eggs in the nests of other bird species. They have a diverse diet, feeding on insects, especially hairy caterpillars that other birds avoid. These cuckoos are known for their long-distance migrations, traveling thousands of kilometers between their breeding grounds in Asia and wintering areas in Australia.
Search for Oriental Cuckoos in northern Australian forests and woodlands from October to April. They prefer areas with dense vegetation and are more likely to be heard than seen. Dawn and dusk offer the best chances for spotting these elusive birds as they move between roosting and feeding areas.
Physical Attributes
Height
33 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds71%
Top Locations
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