Birdsong field guide
African Emerald Cuckoo
Chrysococcyx cupreus
A stunning, iridescent arboreal bird of sub-Saharan Africa, famous for its brilliant emerald plumage and distinct four-note whistle.
What it sounds like
A loud, melodic four-note whistle typically transcribed as 'Hello Georgie,' with a descending cadence on the final syllable.
Reference call, compare with what you heard
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Field notes
- Exhibits strong sexual dimorphism; males are metallic green with yellow bellies, while females are barred with brown and green.
- It is an obligate brood parasite, frequently targeting the nests of sunbirds, weavers, and bulbuls.
- Its diet consists almost exclusively of insects, with a high preference for hairy caterpillars found in the canopy.
- The species is often described as 'more often heard than seen' due to its habit of calling from the tops of tall trees.
- It performs intra-African migrations, moving seasonally in response to rainy patterns and breeding cycles.
Habitat
Primary and secondary evergreen forests, moist woodlands, and lush suburban gardens.
Range
Widespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from West Africa to Ethiopia and south to the Eastern Cape.
Similar & commonly confused birds
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