Northern Hawk-Cuckoo

Overview

The Hierococcyx hyperythrus is a small cuckoo species native to eastern Asia, though it is considered elusive and rare throughout most of its range. Northern populations undertake significant migration to overwinter in Borneo.

Identification

• One of the smallest members of the Hierococcyx genus, measuring 28-30 cm in length with broad, rounded wings that lend a strong resemblance to sparrowhawks.
• Plumage features a slate grey head and upper body, contrasting with rusty red underparts and a white throat.
• A distinctive white patch is visible on the folded wings, while the tail displays narrow black bands and a rufous tip.
• Vocalisations include a two-part buzzy whistle and a frantic, high-pitched long call that is often difficult to locate visually.

Habitat

This species inhabits a wide variety of forested environments, ranging from lowlands up to 2,800 m, including deciduous, coniferous, and mixed taiga forests. It is also found in secondary growth, plantations, bamboo jungles, and deep ravines with rivers across East Asia.

Diet

An insectivore that primarily consumes the larvae of silkworms, hawk moths, sawflies, cicadas, and beetles, with ants being a secondary food source in Japan. Occasional consumption of fruit has been observed, though detailed foraging behaviour remains poorly understood.

Did you know?

To avoid attracting predators while begging for food, nestlings have evolved a silent method of communication by raising and shaking one wing to display a yellow underwing patch that mimics their open mouth, sometimes deceiving host parents into feeding the patch itself.