Aviceda cuculoides
The African Cuckoo-Hawk, *Aviceda cuculoides*, is a distinctive raptor of sub-Saharan Africa, recognized by its striking appearance and somewhat anomalous cuckoo-like flight. This medium-sized hawk measures 38-46 cm in length with a wingspan typically ranging from 85-100 cm, weighing between 200-400 grams. Adults display a prominent grey head and chest, contrasted by finely barred rufous and white underparts, dark brown upperparts, and bright yellow eyes. A small, often flattened erectile cre...
Found primarily in woodlands, forest edges, and riverine forests, the African Cuckoo-Hawk prefers areas with sufficient tree cover for hunting and nesting, typically occurring from sea level up to 2,000 meters.
The African Cuckoo-Hawk predominantly feeds on large insects, particularly orthopterans, mantises, and cicadas, but also consumes a variety of reptiles like lizards and chameleons, and occasionally small birds or rodents.
This diurnal raptor is often observed perching inconspicuously in the dense canopy, patiently awaiting prey. Its primary foraging strategy involves swift aerial sallies from a hidden perch, but it also engages in a distinctive hovering flight before dropping onto prey, or even hops on the ground ...
The African Cuckoo-Hawk (*Aviceda cuculoides*) is widely distributed across sub-Saharan Africa, extending from the western reaches of Senegal and Gambia, eastwards across the continent through Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Democratic Republic of Congo, to the horn of Africa in Ethiopia and Somalia. ...
Least Concern
- Its common name "Cuckoo-Hawk" refers both to its somewhat cuckoo-like flight and its distinctive, non-raptor-like calls. - Unlike many raptors, it has relatively small, un-raptor-like feet, which are better suited for grasping insects and reptiles than large mammals. - It possesses a unique, do...