Common Cuckoo

🔍 Overview

Harbinger of spring, the Common Cuckoo is famous for its call and brood parasitism. A declining summer visitor to Sussex heathlands and open woodland.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Size: Medium (32–34 cm)
Plumage: Grey above, pale barred underparts
Distinctive Marks: Long tail, pointed wings
Bill: Slim and slightly down-curved
Tail: Long, slightly notched
Flight: Swift and falcon-like

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Breeds in heathland, scrub, and woodland edges — key areas include Woods Mill, Pulborough RSPB, and Woods Mill.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Famous two-note “cu-ckoo” call, heard mainly in April–June. Rarely seen, often perched high.

🍴 Diet

Feeds mostly on hairy caterpillars and insects.

📸 Birding Tip

Listen from mid-April in quiet heathland early in the morning. Males are more vocal than visible.