Pallid Cuckoo

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Not yet spotted on Fladder

The Pallid Cuckoo is a medium-sized migratory cuckoo found in Australia and New Guinea. It is named for its somewhat duller, more uniform grey plumage compared to other cuckoos, with a distinctive pale crescent below the eye and yellow eye-ring. Its haunting call is a familiar sound of the Australian spring.

Where to spot

Widespread across mainland Australia, inhabiting open woodlands, forests, and mallee. Migrates north to New Guinea and Indonesia during the Australian winter.

How to spot

Look for its grayish overall appearance, a distinctive pale crescent below the eye, and yellow eye-ring. Its most characteristic feature is its loud, ascending, mournful whistle, often described as 'cuck-coo-coo-coo-coo,' gradually getting higher in pitch. This call is easily heard and helps identify its presence.

When to spot

Best observed in Australia during spring and summer (August-February) when they are breeding. They are present in their northern wintering grounds from March to August.

Where to spot

Widespread across mainland Australia, inhabiting open woodlands, forests, and mallee. Migrates north to New Guinea and Indonesia during the Australian winter.

How to spot

When to spot

Best observed in Australia during spring and summer (August-February) when they are breeding. They are present in their northern wintering grounds from March to August.

The Pallid Cuckoo is a notorious brood parasite, and its chicks often evict the host's eggs or young from the nest shortly after hatching, ensuring they receive all parental care.

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