Common Cuckoo song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Common Cuckoo, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

The iconic 'cuck-oo' call, typically given by the male. The first syllable is higher pitched and louder than the second. It can be repeated many times, especially in the early morning and evening. The call is often associated with spring and summer.

Calls

Females have a distinct bubbling or trilling call, often described as a 'kwik-kwik-kwik' or 'water-bubbling' sound, typically given after laying an egg or when agitated. Both sexes may give a 'hoo-hoo-hoo' call when alarmed.

When they vocalize

Males call most frequently during the breeding season (April to July), particularly at dawn and dusk. Females call less frequently, usually in response to a male or during egg-laying.

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