bronzecuckoos

Bronzecuckoos are a small group of cuckoo species belonging to the genus Chrysococcyx. These birds are native to Australia and parts of Asia, and are known for their iridescent plumage, which often exhibits a metallic bronze or green sheen. They are typically small, measuring between 15 and 20 centimeters in length.

Bronzecuckoos are brood parasites, meaning they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, relying on the host parents to incubate the eggs and raise the young. This parasitic behavior is a common trait among cuckoos. The chicks of bronzecuckoos often exhibit adaptations to ensure their survival, such as ejecting the host's eggs or chicks from the nest.

Their diet primarily consists of insects, particularly caterpillars. They are often heard before they are seen, with their distinctive calls being a common sound in their habitats. Several species exist within the genus, including the Shining Bronze-cuckoo (Chrysococcyx lucidus) found in Australia and New Zealand, and the Little Bronze-cuckoo (Chrysococcyx minutillus) found in Southeast Asia and northern Australia. Their breeding seasons and specific host species can vary depending on the geographical location and the particular bronzecuckoo species.