Fan-tailed Cuckoo
Scientific Name: Cacomantis flabelliformis
Size: 25 to 27 cm
What does it look and sound like?
When sighted, the Fan-tailed Cuckoo can be identified by its dark grey upperparts and soft buff underparts. The black tail is notched with white above, and barred black and white below. It can be distinguished from the superficially similar Brush Cuckoo, by its bright yellow eyering. Its descending mournful trill is a familiar sound.
Where is it found?
Found throughout eastern Australia and south-western Western Australia and Tasmania.
What are its habitats & habits?
The Fan-tailed Cuckoo inhabits open wooded areas, where it is often seen perching on low, exposed branch. The breeding season extends from August to December in the east, and June to October in the west. Host species include flycatchers, fairy-wrens, scrubwrens and thornbills, particularly the Brown Thornbill.
This species features in my book Australia’s Birdwatching Megaspots
