Squirrel Cuckoo

Description:

The Squirrel Cuckoo (Piaya cayana) is a large and active species of cuckoo found in wooded habitats from northwestern Mexico to northern Argentina and Uruguay, and on Trinidad. This large and extremely long-tailed cuckoo is 40.5–50 centimetres (15.9–20 in) long and weighs 95–120 grams (3.4–4.2 oz).

Habitat:

The Squirrel Cuckoo is found in woodland canopy and edges, second growth, hedges and semi-open habitats from sea level to as high as 2,500 metres (8,200 ft), although it is uncommon above 1,200 metres (3,900 ft).

Notes:

This species’ English name derives from its habit of running along branches and leaping from branch to branch like a squirrel. It normally flies only short distances, mainly gliding with an occasional flap.