kukkuu

Kukkuu is a Finnish word that translates to "cuckoo" in English. The cuckoo is a medium-sized bird known for its distinctive call, which sounds like its name. In Finland, the arrival of the cuckoo in spring is often seen as a significant sign that winter is over and warmer weather is approaching. This connection to the changing seasons has led to the cuckoo holding a place in Finnish folklore and traditions.

The common cuckoo (Cuculus canorus) is the species most commonly associated with the name in Finland. These birds are migratory, spending winters in Africa and returning to Europe, including Finland, to breed during the summer months. Cuckoos are famous for their brood parasitism, meaning they lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, leaving the host parents to raise the cuckoo chick. This behavior has contributed to the bird's complex reputation in various cultures. In Finland, while acknowledging its parasitic nature, the cuckoo is generally viewed with a sense of its natural role and connection to the spring's renewal. The sound of the cuckoo is a familiar and often welcomed sound in the Finnish countryside.