African Emerald Cuckoo

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The African Emerald Cuckoo is a stunningly iridescent green cuckoo found across sub-Saharan Africa. Males are entirely glossy emerald green, while females are duller with green barring. It is renowned for its beautiful, distinctive whistled call.

Where to spot

Widespread in sub-Saharan Africa, preferring dense forests, woodlands, riverine thickets, and well-wooded gardens. It often favors areas with tall trees and ample foliage.

How to spot

Listen for its distinctive, whistled call, which is often the easiest way to detect its presence. Look for its brilliant green plumage as it perches high in trees, often obscured by leaves, making it challenging to spot despite its color.

When to spot

Most vocal during the breeding season, generally coinciding with the local rainy season when insects and caterpillars (their primary food) are abundant and host birds are nesting.

Where to spot

Widespread in sub-Saharan Africa, preferring dense forests, woodlands, riverine thickets, and well-wooded gardens. It often favors areas with tall trees and ample foliage.

How to spot

When to spot

Most vocal during the breeding season, generally coinciding with the local rainy season when insects and caterpillars (their primary food) are abundant and host birds are nesting.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

The African Emerald Cuckoo is famous for its distinctive and melodious 'hello, Joey!' or 'did-he-do-it' call, which carries well through the forest and is considered one of the most iconic sounds of the African woodlands.

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