The African emerald cuckoo is a species of cuckoo that is native to Africa.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from West and Central African rainforests through the Congo Basin to East and parts of Southern Africa. Favors evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, forest edges, riparian woods, secondary growth, and wooded plantations. Often keeps to the canopy and midstory, descending to edges and clearings to feed. It is generally resident but may make local seasonal movements following rains and food availability.
Altitude Range
0–2400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A brilliant, canopy-dwelling brood parasite, the African emerald cuckoo lays its eggs in the nests of smaller passerines and does not build a nest of its own. Males are striking with glossy green above and vivid yellow below, while females are barred and more cryptic. Its clear, fluting whistles carry far through forests. Like many cuckoos, it can eat hairy caterpillars that many other birds avoid.
Chrysococcyx cupreus in a spawn of Anabathmis newtonii - MHNT
Temperament
secretive and often solitary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct dashes through the canopy
Social Behavior
A brood parasite that lays single eggs in the nests of small passerines such as sunbirds, bulbuls, and warblers; the host raises the chick. Typically solitary or in loose proximity to others when food is abundant. Courtship involves persistent calling from exposed perches high in the canopy.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A series of clear, fluty, far-carrying whistles, often descending and repeated at intervals. Also gives sharp ticking notes and short whistled phrases during territorial or breeding displays.
