What is a "cuckoo"?

A cuckoo is a fascinating and enigmatic bird known for its unique breeding behavior and distinctive call. Found across various continents, including Europe, Asia, and Africa, the cuckoo is often associated with its remarkable reproductive strategy of laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species, relying on them to raise its offspring. The cuckoo's plumage varies among species, but it generally features a sleek and slender body with a combination of gray, brown, and white feathers, enabling it to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. The male cuckoo is known for its unmistakable call, which is a familiar sound in many natural environments, resembling its name "cuck-oo." This call serves to establish territory and attract a mate. Despite its charming appearance and melodic voice, the cuckoo has gained a reputation as a brood parasite due to its unique reproductive habits.