Great Spotted Cuckoo vs Common Cuckoo

In short

The Great Spotted Cuckoo and the Common Cuckoo are both medium-sized cuckoos, but they can be distinguished by plumage and vocalizations. The Great Spotted Cuckoo has a distinctive crest and contrasting plumage, while the Common Cuckoo is more uniformly colored and lacks a crest.

Identification tips

1. Look for the crest on the Great Spotted Cuckoo. 2. Note the chestnut wings and contrasting plumage of the Great Spotted Cuckoo. 3. Listen for the Common Cuckoo's distinctive 'cuckoo' call. 4. Consider habitat: Great Spotted Cuckoo is more likely in open areas.

Size

Both species are similar in size, but the Great Spotted Cuckoo may appear slightly larger due to its crest and longer tail.

Plumage

The Great Spotted Cuckoo has a distinctive crest, grey head, and contrasting black and white plumage with chestnut wings. In contrast, the Common Cuckoo is more uniformly grey with a barred underbelly and lacks a crest.

Behaviour

Both species are brood parasites and have similar behaviors, but the Great Spotted Cuckoo may be more often seen in open areas compared to the Common Cuckoo.

Habitat

The Great Spotted Cuckoo is often found in open woodlands and scrub, while the Common Cuckoo prefers a variety of habitats including woodlands, moorlands, and farmlands.

Voice

The Common Cuckoo is famous for its 'cuckoo' call, while the Great Spotted Cuckoo has a more varied and less distinctive vocalization.