Page 11 - Cornwall Issue 1 2025

BIRDS OF THE DIEDERIK CUCKOO THE BIG PICTURE

Afr. Diederikkie
A FEATHER sub-Saharan Africa, renowned for its unique breed-
The Diederik Cuckoo is a fascinating bird native to
ing strategy. Unlike most birds that diligently build
their own nests and raise their young, the Diederik
Cuckoo has a parasitic lifestyle. The female cuckoo
lays her single egg in the nests of other birds, pri-
marily weavers. This parasitic behaviour allows the
cuckoo chick to be raised by unsuspecting foster
parents, ensuring its survival.

A skilled insectivore, the Diederik Cuckoo primar-
ily feeds on caterpillars, which it hunts with agility
amongst the leaves of trees and bushes. It also
includes spiders and other small invertebrates in its
diet.
The photograph depicts a captivating moment in the
Diederik Cuckoo’s courtship behaviour. The male is
offering a worm to a female, a common tactic seen
in many bird species. This display serves as a testa-
ment to the male’s prowess as a provider, a crucial
factor for females when choosing a mate – not un-
like humans I would think…!

Cornwall View • Issue 1 2025 9