Great Spotted Cuckoo

The great spotted cuckoo, Clamator glandarius, presents a striking figure in the avian world. Larger than its common cuckoo cousin, it measures 35–39 cm in length. The adult boasts a sleek grey cap and wings, a yellowish face and upper breast, and pristine white underparts. Both sexes share this similar plumage. Juveniles, however, can be distinguished by their blackish upperparts and cap, along with chestnut primary wing feathers. Its flight is reminiscent of a magpie, broad-winged and undulating.

Identification Tips

When identifying the great spotted cuckoo, look for its slender body, long tail, and strong legs. The grey cap and wings contrast with the yellowish face and white underparts. In flight, observe the magpie-like quality and listen for its distinctive call.

Habitat

This species thrives in warm, open landscapes dotted with trees, which provide ample perching and nesting opportunities.

Distribution

The great spotted cuckoo has a widespread presence across Africa and the Mediterranean Basin, adapting to various environments within this range.

Behaviour

This cuckoo is known for its brood parasitism, particularly targeting the nests of corvids such as the Eurasian magpie. Unlike some cuckoos, the great spotted cuckoo's chicks do not evict host eggs, but they may outcompete host chicks for food.

Song & Calls

The vocalizations of the great spotted cuckoo are robust, with a characteristic "cher-cher-kri-kri" and variations that can be heard across its habitat.

Breeding

During breeding, the great spotted cuckoo lays its eggs in the nests of other birds, particularly corvids. Interestingly, the chicks of this species secrete a repellent scent when threatened, offering protection not only to themselves but also to the host's chicks, especially in the presence of predators.

Similar Species

While similar in some aspects to the common cuckoo, the great spotted cuckoo is distinguishable by its larger size, different plumage, and unique breeding behavior.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the great spotted cuckoo includes insects, spiders, small reptiles, and hairy caterpillars, which are often unpalatable to other birds.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the great spotted cuckoo as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant immediate threats to its survival.