Definition

Noun: * European cuckoo: A specific species of bird (Cuculus canorus), also commonly called the common cuckoo, native to Europe and Asia. It is known for its distinctive two-note call and for its brood parasitic behavior, where it lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species.

Usage

• The European cuckoo is a well-known sign of spring in many parts of the continent.
• Researchers are studying the migration patterns of the European cuckoo.

Advanced Usage

• Brood Parasite: The European cuckoo is a classic example of a brood parasite. The female does not build her own nest but instead lays a single egg in the nest of a host species, such as a reed warbler or meadow pipit.
• Mimicry: The egg of the European cuckoo often mimics the color and pattern of the host bird's eggs to avoid detection.

Variants and Related Words

• Common cuckoo: The most frequent alternative name for the European cuckoo.
• Cuculus canorus: The scientific (Latin) name for the species.

Synonyms

• Common cuckoo

Related Phrases and Idioms

• "A cuckoo in the nest": This idiom, derived from the behavior of the European cuckoo, refers to an unwelcome intruder in a group or situation, especially one who threatens to take over or exploit the others.
  • Example: The new manager, with his drastic changes, was seen as a cuckoo in the nest by the long-term staff.

Noun

1. common cuckoo of Europe having a distinctive two-note call; lays eggs in the nests of other birds