cuckoo

cuculus canorus

• Quite hawk-like in flight, except for its graduated tail
   
• More often heard than seen
   
• It has grey upper parts and barring below
   
• Some females are rusty brown
   
• Its wings are pointed and often drooped when perching
   

Where found

Marshes, woods, hedges, moors and farmland. Famous for its parasitic nesting behaviour, laying its eggs in other birds nests.
 

Record seasonal events

You can help scientists monitor the effect of climate change on the cuckoo by telling us the dates when you saw one for the first and third time where you live

• A summer visitor, from April