Square-tailed Drongo-cuckoo song and calls

Birdsong and calls are often the easiest way to identify the Square-tailed Drongo-cuckoo, especially when the bird is hidden in dense foliage. Below is what to listen for.

Song

Its song is a series of clear, plaintive, often descending whistles or 'wi-wi-wi' notes, sometimes described as melancholic or mournful. It can be quite repetitive and distinctive, often given from a prominent perch.

Calls

Calls include sharp 'chip' notes, and a characteristic 'pee-pee-pee-pee' or 'pi-pi-pi-pi' series, often accelerating and rising in pitch. It also has a 'kwee-kwee-kwee' call.

When they vocalize

Most vocal during the breeding season, typically in the early morning and late afternoon, but can be heard throughout the day.

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