Fan-tailed Cuckoo
Fan-tailed Cuckoo
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The Fan-tailed Cuckoo is a widespread and common cuckoo species across Australia, New Guinea, and some Pacific islands. It is characterized by its slate-grey head and upperparts, rufous-brown underparts, and a distinct fan-shaped tail that is often flicked. Its mournful, descending whistle is a familiar sound.
Where to spot
Found in a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, mallee, scrubland, and even suburban gardens across Australia, New Guinea, New Zealand, and islands in the southwest Pacific (e.g., New Caledonia, Vanuatu).
How to spot
Look for its grey head and back, rufous belly, and the habit of fanning its tail, revealing white spots on the undertail feathers. Its mournful, descending whistle, often described as a 'trilling whistle' or 'pee-pee-pee-peep-peep,' which slows down and drops in pitch, is highly diagnostic and frequently heard.
When to spot
Year-round in most parts of its range. Breeding season in Australia is typically spring to early summer (August-January).
Where to spot
Found in a variety of habitats including forests, woodlands, mallee, scrubland, and even suburban gardens across Australia, New Guinea, New Zealand, and islands in the southwest Pacific (e.g., New Caledonia, Vanuatu).
How to spot
Look for its grey head and back, rufous belly, and the habit of fanning its tail, revealing white spots on the undertail feathers. Its mournful, descending whistle, often described as a 'trilling whistle' or 'pee-pee-pee-peep-peep,' which slows down and drops in pitch, is highly diagnostic and frequently heard.
When to spot
Year-round in most parts of its range. Breeding season in Australia is typically spring to early summer (August-January).
This cuckoo is named for its distinctive tail-fanning behavior, which is particularly noticeable when it is perched and calling, revealing white spots on its undertail.
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