Birds in Backyards

Channel-billed Cuckoo survey

Juvenile Channel-billed Cuckoo being fed by Pied Currawong. © Bruce Thomas Juvenile Channel-billed Cuckoo being fed by Pied Currawong.
Photo: Bruce Thomas © Bruce Thomas
Juvenile Channel-billed Cuckoo being fed by Pied Currawong. © Bruce Thomas Juvenile Channel-billed Cuckoo being fed by Pied Currawong.
Photo: Bruce Thomas © Bruce Thomas
Juvenile Channel-billed Cuckoo being fed by Pied Currawong. © Bruce Thomas Juvenile Channel-billed Cuckoo being fed by Pied Currawong.
Photo: Bruce Thomas © Bruce Thomas

About this survey

The Channel-billed Cuckoo is a migratory species that arrives in Australia from New Guinea and the Moluccas to breed in spring. It is a type of cuckoo, and it lays its eggs in the nests of a range of other bird species. Despite being conspicuous by its raucous calls, little is known about many aspects of the ecology of this species.

The main aims of this survey are to document arrival dates of Channel-billed Cuckoos in different parts of Australia and to monitor changes in the species' distribution in urban areas. The secondary aims are to document interactions with other species and to compile a list of bird species that raise their young.

Single observations are very helpful, but if possible, we would like you to send in a survey record each day you see or hear a Channel-billed Cuckoo.

Channel-billed Cuckoo fact sheet

Become a member

To take part in the survey, you will need to record your observations via an on-line form. To submit this form you will first need to become a member. Membership is free, providing you with your own password that allows you to access your data and allows us to keep track of repeat records from the same location. You can also choose to select a membership option that will allow you to receive email updates of research results and bird news.

Membership

Take part in the survey

Step 1: Become a member
Step 2: Find out more about the Channel-billed Cuckoo, including calls and plumage
Step 3: Listen and look for Channel-billed Cuckoos in your backyard or other location
Step 4: Log in and fill out the on-line form

Members