Hierococcyx sparverioides
The Large Hawk-Cuckoo, *Hierococcyx sparverioides*, is a striking member of the cuckoo family, renowned for its remarkable resemblance to accipiter hawks, a mimicry that provides both camouflage and potential deterrence for host species. This robust cuckoo measures 34-40 cm in length and weighs between 100-180g, making it one of the larger hawk-cuckoos. Adults exhibit a distinctive grey head, dark grey back and wings, and extensively barred underparts with a rufous wash across the breast, acc...
Found primarily in subtropical and tropical moist montane forests, broadleaf evergreen forests, and foothills, ranging from sea level up to 3000 meters in elevation, sometimes higher during migration.
Feeds predominantly on large insects, especially hairy caterpillars, which are toxic to many other bird species. Also consumes mantises, cicadas, grasshoppers, beetles, and occasionally small reptiles or fruits.
The Large Hawk-Cuckoo is a diurnal and often elusive bird, becoming most conspicuous during the breeding season through its persistent and loud vocalizations. Males establish and defend territories with their iconic, ascending 'brain-fever' call, delivered from prominent perches in the forest can...
The Large Hawk-Cuckoo boasts an extensive breeding range across the Himalayan foothills, stretching from northeast India, Nepal, and Bhutan, eastward through Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, and southern China, including Taiwan. Populations also breed in Peninsular Malaysia, Sumatra, Java, Borne...
Least Concern
- The Large Hawk-Cuckoo earns its name from its uncanny resemblance to small accipiter hawks, a form of mimicry thought to deter predators or trick host species. - It is an obligate brood parasite, meaning it never builds its own nest, relying entirely on other bird species, primarily babblers, t...