Black-billed Cuckoo vs Common Cuckoo

In short

The Black-billed Cuckoo (Coccyzus erythropthalmus) and the Common Cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) can be distinguished by bill color and vocalizations. The Black-billed Cuckoo has a black bill and a repetitive, staccato call, while the Common Cuckoo is known for its iconic 'cuckoo' call. Both species are secretive, but their habitats and behaviors offer additional clues.

Identification tips

• Bill Color: Black-billed Cuckoo has a black bill; Common Cuckoo's bill is more greyish.
• Call: Listen for the Black-billed Cuckoo's staccato call versus the Common Cuckoo's 'cuckoo' call.
• Habitat: Note the habitat; Black-billed prefers dense woods, Common is in open areas.
• Size: Common Cuckoo is larger, which may be noticeable in flight.

Size

The Common Cuckoo is generally larger than the Black-billed Cuckoo.

Plumage

The Black-billed Cuckoo has a plain brown upperpart with a white underpart, lacking the barred pattern seen in the Common Cuckoo. The Common Cuckoo displays a more pronounced grey upperpart and a barred underpart.

Behaviour

The Black-billed Cuckoo is more secretive and sluggish, often associated with dense, wooded habitats. The Common Cuckoo is also secretive but is more frequently seen in open habitats.

Habitat

The Black-billed Cuckoo prefers densely wooded areas, especially coniferous forests, while the Common Cuckoo is found in a variety of open habitats, including meadows and farmlands.

Voice

The Black-billed Cuckoo produces a staccato 'cu-cu-cu' call, while the Common Cuckoo is famous for its two-note 'cuckoo' call.