Pheasant Cuckoo

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The Pheasant Cuckoo is a secretive and elusive cuckoo species inhabiting the humid lowland forests of the Neotropics. It is characterized by its long, graduated tail and is more often detected by its unique vocalizations than by direct sightings.

Where to spot

Inhabits humid tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, and dense secondary growth from southern Mexico, through Central America, and across northern South America.

How to spot

This species is extremely difficult to see due to its shy nature and preference for dense undergrowth. Birdwatchers should focus on listening for its unique, often whistled or 'booming' calls, which can sound ventriloquial. Patience and careful scanning of dense foliage are essential if attempting to spot it.

When to spot

Year-round resident. It is most vocal during the early morning and late afternoon, especially during the breeding season, when its distinctive calls echo through the forest.

Where to spot

Inhabits humid tropical and subtropical forests, forest edges, and dense secondary growth from southern Mexico, through Central America, and across northern South America.

How to spot

When to spot

Year-round resident. It is most vocal during the early morning and late afternoon, especially during the breeding season, when its distinctive calls echo through the forest.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

Despite its name, which references its long, pheasant-like tail, the Pheasant Cuckoo is not closely related to pheasants but is a true cuckoo, known for its cryptic behavior and hard-to-pinpoint calls.

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