The ash-colored cuckoo is an American bird species of the cuckoo family (Cuculidae).
Region
Northern South America
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in lowland and foothill regions east of the Andes, frequenting secondary growth, riparian thickets, forest edges, and savanna woodland. It adapts well to disturbed habitats with dense shrub layers and scattered trees. Often stays within the midstory and understory where cover is plentiful. Local presence can be patchy, but it is widely distributed within suitable habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The ash-colored cuckoo is a small New World cuckoo that favors edge habitats and dense thickets. Unlike the classic Old World brood-parasitic cuckoos, this species typically builds its own nest and both parents care for the young. It is often overlooked due to its quiet, skulking behavior but can be located by its mellow, whistled calls.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides between cover
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, moving quietly through dense vegetation. Builds a small, shallow twig nest placed low to mid-level in shrubs or small trees. Both sexes are believed to share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a soft series of mellow whistles and cooing notes, often delivered from concealed perches. Calls are unobtrusive but carry in still conditions, aiding detection in dense thickets.
