YELLOW-BILLED CUCKOO

11"

FIELD IDENTIFICATION: The Yellow-billed Cuckoo is a summer resident in Wise County.  It has brown back, wings, and part of the head, which contrasts with the clean white underside and throat.  The primary feathers (see Topography Page) are rufous, and the black tail feathers have bold white tips.  The bill is mostly yellow, with some black (it briefly lacks yellow in young birds).

By Claire Curry

Photo by Mary and Claire Curry on Greenwood Road, Wise County in May 2001

Sketched in pencil by Claire Curry (Summer 2000)