Red-chested Cuckoo

The red-chested cuckoo (Cuculus solitarius) is a species of parasitic cuckoo predominantly found across sub-Saharan Africa. This species exhibits migratory behavior, typically moving from the southern regions of Africa northwards during the dry season and returning south when the rains begin. The bird measures about 28 to 30 cm (11-12 in) in length and is characterized by its deep red chest, greyish head and back, and a striped white belly. The red-chest helps distinguish it from similar species.

A notable feature of the red-chested cuckoo is its distinctive call, often described as a melodic and repetitive “piet-my-vrou” – meaning “Peter my wife” in Afrikaans. This phrase is also a play on words, as it hints to the notion that the male red-chested cuckoo keeps on calling because he never gets a female as his mate. The call, which can be heard both day and night, is a hallmark of southern African soundscapes, particularly during the rainy season.

Here is a video of a male calling in Tembe Elephant Park, South Africa, November 1st, 2013:

The red-chested cuckoo favors a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and savannas. It adapts well to areas with dense foliage which provide ample cover and feeding opportunities, which also makes it hard to spot. Its diet mainly consists of insects, particularly caterpillars. This cuckoo is known for its methodical way of feeding, often foraging alone and sometimes following swarms of insects to capitalize on the abundant food source.

The breeding season of the red-chested cuckoo aligns with the rainy season, as this coincides with an increase in insect food sources, which is critical for its offspring. It is a brood parasite, meaning it does not build its own nest. Instead, it lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species. Some common hosts are Cape robin-chat (Dessonornis caffer) and olive thrush (Turdus olivaceus). The incubation period and time until fledging vary based on the host species. Once hatched, the cuckoo chick may push out the host’s eggs or young to monopolize the food supply provided by the unsuspecting host parents.

The broad range and relatively stable population of the red-chested cuckoo indicate it is not currently threatened. It is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List.