Order: Cuculiformes
Family: Cuculidae
The Guira Cuckoo is a conspicuous, long-tailed bird with a shaggy crest and streaked brown and white plumage. Commonly found in open habitats of Patagonia and much of South America, it is known for its gregarious behavior, often moving in small, noisy flocks. Unlike many other cuckoos, Guira Cuckoos do not lay their eggs in the nests of other species. Instead, they build large communal nests where multiple females may lay eggs, leading to shared incubation and chick-rearing. Their calls are loud and varied, contributing to their reputation as one of the most vocal birds in their range. The Guira Cuckoo feeds mainly on insects, small vertebrates, and occasionally fruit, foraging both on the ground and in low vegetation. Its untidy appearance, with a spiky crest and loose feathers, makes it easy to recognize. Adaptable and tolerant of human-altered landscapes, the Guira Cuckoo is a familiar sight in pastures, savannas, and even urban parks.
Habitat
Open woodlands, savannas, pastures, scrub, and urban parks across Patagonia and other regions.
Foraging
Feeds mainly on insects and small vertebrates, foraging in groups on the ground or in low vegetation.
