Yellow-billed Cuckoo Calling Off Trail

The distinct knocking call of a Yellow-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus americanus) was heard in the forest along the edge of Hawk Mountain property.

These tropical-looking birds are somewhat common at Hawk Mountain during the breeding season, but they may be hard to spot. Though larger (approx. blue jay size) in size with a long, spotted tail and white underside, yellow-billed cuckoos usually stay very still while hunting and are usually only spotted whilst flying away. The hollow knocking call is performed only by the males of this species, but both sexes croon soft cooing songs during courtship.

Photo by Andrew Weitzel.