The African cuckoo-hawk, or African baza, is a medium-sized raptor in the family Accipitridae so named because it resembles the common cuckoo. It is found in sub-Saharan Africa and along the eastern parts of Southern Africa, preferring dense woodland and forest of either indigenous or exotic trees.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found across much of sub-Saharan Africa, especially in forest, dense woodland, riverine gallery forest, and mature plantations. It frequents edges, clearings, and secondary growth where hunting is easier beneath the canopy. The species also uses suburban areas with tall exotic or indigenous trees. It generally avoids open savanna without substantial tree cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the African baza, this raptor is named for its cuckoo-like shape and barred underparts. It favors dense woodland canopies and is often overlooked due to its secretive, unobtrusive habits. A small erectile crest and flap-glide flight add to its distinctive look.
In flight
Temperament
secretive and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with glides; agile canopy flier; occasional soaring
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories in forested habitat. Builds a small stick nest high in a tree, often well concealed. Clutch size is typically small, and both adults attend the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are thin, piping whistles, often given from cover or during display flights. Calls may include a repeated, high-pitched pee-wee or whee-tee, carrying through the canopy.
Plumage
Brown upperparts with a slight crest; underparts pale with bold rufous to brown barring giving a cuckoo-like look. Tail shows broad dark bands; underwings barred. Juveniles tend to have streaked rather than strongly barred underparts.
Diet
Predominantly hunts arboreal prey such as lizards (including chameleons), large insects (cicadas, beetles, grasshoppers), and occasionally small birds, rodents, and frogs. Employs sit-and-wait from shaded perches and makes short sallies into foliage. Will glean prey from branches and leaves and may pursue prey in short, agile bursts.
Preferred Environment
Hunts within and along the edges of forest canopies, riverine woodland, and mature plantations. Often selects areas with broken canopy and clear sightlines to launch short dashes.
