Cuckooshrikes

Cuckooshrikes and their relatives, composing the Campephagidae family, are small to medium-sized birds found across tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Asia, and Australasia, totaling 93 species split among 11 genera. Despite their name, they are neither true cuckoos nor shrikes, but they share a greyish coloration leading to their alternate name "greybirds" and are thought to be somewhat related to Old World orioles. DNA studies have prompted taxonomic reshuffling resulting in monophyletic genera, with several species formerly grouped under Coracina reassigned to other genera. Cuckooshrikes are predominantly forest-dwelling birds, with some species adaptable to disturbed habitats and a few in more open landscapes. Many exhibit bright coloration, with some species sexually dimorphic. Their behavior ranges from solitary to small group living, with most being insectivorous and a few adding fruits, seeds, or even small vertebrates to their diet. Breeding knowledge is incomplete; however, they are generally monogamous and territorial. Their nests are cup-shaped, placed in trees, and their eggs are blotchy in appearance. The family's classification now provides a clearer organization of species across their respective genera, from the vibrant minivets to distinct cuckooshrikes like the sexually dimorphic Campephaga or the solitary blue Cyanograucalus.