Great Spotted Cuckoo

🔍 Overview

A southern European species, this cuckoo is a very rare spring overshoot in the UK. A Sussex record would be exceptional but possible.

🪶 Key Identification Features

Longer tail than Common Cuckoo

Pale grey head, black-and-white speckled wings

Crest and yellowish underparts

🗺️ Habitat & Distribution

Would most likely occur in coastal scrub or open woodland in March to May, especially after southerly winds. Places like Beachy Head or Seaford Head would be good candidates.

🎶 Voice & Behaviour

Harsh, repeated “shree-chuck” call. Often sits out on exposed perches. Parasitises Magpie and Crow nests in its range.