Page 164 - Atlas Of The World's Strangest Animals

164 ATLAS OF THE WORLD’S STRANGEST ANIMALS

Cuckoo

Cuckoos are well known for their mercenary method of parenting.While other

birds struggle to raise their young, common cuckoos sit back and let others do
the work for them. But don’t judge these beautiful birds too harshly. Such
strange behaviour is all down to instinct.

Key Facts ORDER Cuculiformes / FAMILY Cuculidae
GENUS & SPECIES Cuculus canorus

Weight 100–150g (3.5–5.3oz)
Length 55–65cm (21.6–25.6in)
Wingspan: 32–34cm (12.6–13.4in)
Sexual maturity 1–2 years
Breeding season Late May, but varies with location
Number of eggs 1–25

Incubation period 11–12 days
Breeding interval Yearly
Typical diet Insects

Lifespan Up to 13 years

(c) 2011 Marshall Cavendish. All Rights Reserved.