The dazzling African emerald cuckoo is predominantly a summer visitor to the St Lucia area, although a few birds (mostly sub-adults) overwinter.
They are fond of hairy caterpillars and are often found in areas where these abound. They often move together with Klaas’ cuckoo.
Males are extremely vocal and their piercing ‘Hello Georgie’ call can be heard throughout the forest. Beware though…..the Red-capped robin-chat loves to mimic their call so you may follow the call only to find the ‘wrong’ bird. Males usually have favourite song perches/trees where they call from on a regular basis.
African emerald cuckoo are nest parasites to Green-backed camaroptera, Black-throated wattle eye and Ashy flycatcher.
They are fond of hairy caterpillars and are often found in areas where these abound. They often move together with Klaas’ cuckoo.
Males are extremely vocal and their piercing ‘Hello Georgie’ call can be heard throughout the forest. Beware though…..the Red-capped robin-chat loves to mimic their call so you may follow the call only to find the ‘wrong’ bird. Males usually have favourite song perches/trees where they call from on a regular basis.
African emerald cuckoo are nest parasites to Green-backed camaroptera, Black-throated wattle eye and Ashy flycatcher.