Ilultes

Ilultes is a genus of birds in the family Cuculidae, which includes cuckoos and their relatives. The genus is native to the Old World, with species found in Africa, Asia, and Europe. Ilultes species are known for their distinctive appearance, with long, slender bills and a distinctive call that is often described as a "hoot."

The genus includes two recognized species: the African cuckoo (Ilultes axillaris) and the Indian cuckoo (Ilultes leucopterus). Both species are medium-sized birds, with a length of around 25-30 centimeters. They have a mostly brown plumage, with white or pale markings on their wings and tail. The African cuckoo has a white patch on its wing, while the Indian cuckoo has a white patch on its tail.

Ilultes species are brood parasites, meaning they lay their eggs in the nests of other birds. The female cuckoo lays a single egg in the nest of a host species, such as a weaver or a wren. The host bird then incubates the egg and raises the cuckoo chick as its own. The cuckoo chick grows rapidly and eventually evicts the host's eggs or chicks from the nest.

Ilultes species are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, savannas, and grasslands. They are often seen perched on branches or in trees, where they use their long bills to probe for insects. Their distinctive call is often heard in the early morning or late afternoon, and they are known to sing a variety of songs.

Ilultes species are not considered threatened, but they are vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation. Conservation efforts are focused on protecting their habitats and reducing human disturbance.