Pallid Cuckoo
Heteroscenes pallidus
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<birdfyi-bird slug="heteroscenes-pallidus"></birdfyi-bird>The Pallid Cuckoo (Heteroscenes pallidus) is a bird species in the family Cuculidae (cuckoos), within the order Cuculiformes (cuckoos). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 37.2 cm and a weight of 90.5 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
Pallid Cuckoo (Heteroscenes pallidus) — 28–33 cm. Pale grey-brown above; whitish below with faint spotting; graduated tail; yellow orbital ring; notched bill. Widespread across Australia in woodland, open scrub, and grassland. Migratory. Brood parasite targeting a wide range of passerine hosts. Insectivore specialising in hairy caterpillars.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 37.2 cm | 14.6 in |
| Weight | 90.5 g | 3.19 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Pallid Cuckoo: pale gray-brown above; white-cream below; long graduated gray-brown tail; yellow eye-ring; no barring; plain cuckoo
Habitat & Range
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: NO. Incubation: 12-14 days.
Sound
Song
Loud, raucous call with harsh nasal quality; penetrating notes carrying through dense wet forest. Vocalization pattern typical of this species in its native habitat.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes (Cuckoos) |
| Family | Cuculidae (Cuckoos) |
| Genus | Heteroscenes |
| Species | Heteroscenes pallidus |
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Pallid Cuckoo endangered?
How does the Pallid Cuckoo nest?
What does the Pallid Cuckoo sound like?
How big is the Pallid Cuckoo?
What order and family does the Pallid Cuckoo belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Cuculidae family