Common cuckoo
Cuculus canorus
Aves Cuculus canorus, commonly known as the Common Cuckoo, is a bird species found throughout Europe and Asia. It is also known as Cuco Común in Spanish, including the region of Comunidad Valenciana.
The Common Cuckoo is renowned for its distinctive call, which is often associated with the arrival of spring. This call is typically emitted by the male as he seeks to attract a mate.
- Appearance: The Common Cuckoo has a sleek, elongated body, with a narrow tail. Its plumage consists of grey upper parts and a slightly lighter grey breast and belly. The bird has a white patch on the nape and striking yellow eyes.
- Behavior: Known for its brood parasitism, the Common Cuckoo lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species, leaving the responsibility of raising its young to unsuspecting foster parents. The chicks often hatch earlier than the host's own eggs, which can lead to the eviction of the legitimate offspring.
- Diet: The Common Cuckoo primarily feeds on insects and their larvae, with a particular preference for caterpillars, including those with toxic hairs which other birds tend to avoid.
- Habitat: This species is highly adaptable and can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, heathlands, and open countryside across the Comunidad Valenciana.
The Common Cuckoo plays an important role in the ecosystem, helping to control insect populations. Its unique call and intriguing reproductive behavior make it a fascinating subject for bird enthusiasts in the region and beyond.