Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo
Hierococcyx nisicolor
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<birdfyi-bird slug="hierococcyx-nisicolor"></birdfyi-bird>The Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx nisicolor) is a bird species in the family Cuculidae (cuckoos), within the order Cuculiformes (cuckoos). Recorded measurements include a wingspan of 35.2 cm and a weight of 81.1 g. The IUCN Red List classifies it as Least Concern.
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About
Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx nisicolor) — 28–31 cm. Grey-brown above; pale below with rufous streaking; barred tail. Inhabits montane forest from the eastern Himalayas through Southeast Asia to China. Brood parasite. Insectivore. Named for its loud, persistent whistle.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 35.2 cm | 13.9 in |
| Weight | 81.1 g | 2.86 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo: gray-brown above; pale below with rufous barring; hawk-mimic; long barred tail; yellow eye-ring; distinctive whistle
Habitat & Range
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: NO.
Sound
Song
Loud, raucous call; harsh penetrating notes building in rapid excited sequence from forest perch. Vocalization pattern typical of this species in its native habitat.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Cuculiformes (Cuckoos) |
| Family | Cuculidae (Cuckoos) |
| Genus | Hierococcyx |
| Species | Hierococcyx nisicolor |
External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo endangered?
How does the Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo nest?
What does the Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo sound like?
How big is the Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo?
What order and family does the Whistling Hawk-Cuckoo belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Cuculidae family