Oriental Cuckoo

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The Oriental Cuckoo (Cuculus optatus) is a migratory species found across parts of Asia, closely related to Horsfield's Cuckoo. It breeds in forested regions across temperate Asia and undertakes long-distance migrations to Southeast Asia and Australasia for winter. It is a brood parasite.

Where to spot

Breeds in a wide band across northern Asia, from Siberia and Mongolia to Japan and parts of China; winters in Southeast Asia, Indonesia, New Guinea, and Australia. Found in montane and lowland forests.

How to spot

Listen for its distinct four-note 'ho-ho-ho-ho' or 'ko-koh-koh-koh' call. Visually very similar to Horsfield's Cuckoo (C. saturatus), with grey upperparts and barred underparts; identification often relies on call and precise geographic location, as plumage differences are extremely subtle.

When to spot

During breeding season (spring/summer) in its northern range; during migration (spring/autumn) and winter (autumn/winter) in Southeast Asia and Australasia. Most vocal during breeding.

Where to spot

How to spot

When to spot

During breeding season (spring/summer) in its northern range; during migration (spring/autumn) and winter (autumn/winter) in Southeast Asia and Australasia. Most vocal during breeding.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Its melancholic four-note call is a characteristic sound of vast northern Asian forests and woodlands during the breeding season, often heard resonating through the trees.

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