Black Cuckoo
Cuculus clamosus
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<birdfyi-bird slug="cuculus-clamosus"></birdfyi-bird>The Black Cuckoo (Cuculus clamosus) is a bird species in the family Cuculidae (cuckoos), within the order Cuculiformes (cuckoos). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 36.2 cm and a weight of 86.9 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
Black Cuckoo (Cuculus clamosus) — 28–32 cm. Entirely glossy black; slender build; long tail; slightly decurved bill. Inhabits forest, woodland, and dense savanna across sub-Saharan Africa. Brood parasite targeting bulbuls, shrikes, and other passerines. Insectivore; specialises in hairy caterpillars. Identified by its mournful 'I'm so sad' call.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 36.2 cm | 14.3 in |
| Weight | 86.86666666666667 g | 3.06 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Black Cuckoo: all glossy black; red eye; occasionally rufous undertail; slender; long dark tail; sexually monomorphic dark plumage
Habitat & Range
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: NO. Incubation: 13-14 days. Fledging: 20-21 days.
Sound
Song
Loud, nasal call with bubbling quality; distinctive resonant notes carrying through dense African forest.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes (Cuckoos) |
| Family | Cuculidae (Cuckoos) |
| Genus | Cuculus |
| Species | Cuculus clamosus |
Distribution
Black Cuckoo has been recorded in 1 countries.
countries highlighted
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Black Cuckoo endangered?
How does the Black Cuckoo nest?
What does the Black Cuckoo sound like?
How big is the Black Cuckoo?
What order and family does the Black Cuckoo belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Cuculidae family