The Cuckoo is one of those iconic birds that you hear in the spring and summer, but seldom see. Adult Cuckoos tend to perch in the top of large trees so if you hear one nearby, there is a good chance of seeing it. Adult Cuckoos look a little like a pigeon at first glance. However, they have a clear barred pattern on their front. They also perch in a more horizontal position, with their wings drooping slightly. They can look a lot like a bird of prey when flying. Males are mostly grey and females tend to have a more brown colour. having said that, this one is a juvenile and has a very attractive multi-shade brown plumage (still with the stripy front).

There were several of these juveniles (no doubt fostered by warblers from the nearby Druridge Pools). They were flying over the dunes, and feeding on Cinnabar Caterpillars which feed on the yellow ragwort. Ragwort is poisonous and hence the caterpillars are as well. Interestingly, the Cuckoo is the only bird that can eat these poisonous caterpillars.