Editor’s Note: The Yellow-billed Cuckoo is part of the CROW CAW (Case A Week) series, which tells the stories of the patients at the Clinic for the Rehabilitation of Wildlife on Sanibel Island, the dangers they face, and how we can help protect all of our wildlife. Read previous cases here.
Earlier this week, an adult, Yellow-billed Cuckoo (25-1776) was discovered on the ground in a backyard patio. Concerned that it was not flying away, a rescuer brought the cuckoo to CROW for care.
Upon admission, the cuckoo was found to be in poor body condition and dehydrated. More concerning was that the tip of its beak appeared fractured. This injury is often associated with head trauma, which can pose significant neurological risks.
Fortunately, radiographs (x-rays) showed that only the outer layer of the beak appeared damaged, as no fractures were noted in the underlying bone. Bills consist of an underlying bone covered by keratin — the same material that makes up our fingernails — so the injury will be able to heal completely with time. The patient is receiving anti-inflammatory and pain medication to aid in their recovery.
Due to the potential risks associated with head trauma, the cuckoo is currently housed in an oxygen chamber in the ICU. This controlled environment helps to increase oxygen uptake, reduce swelling, and promote overall healing. After four days of care, the patient began eating on its own, which is a great sign of improvement.
The Yellow-billed Cuckoo winters in South America but migrates north during spring and summer to breed and nest. Unlike other cuckoos, which can be brood parasites, Yellow-bellied Cuckoos will usually raise their own young. Although their cryptic, brown and white coloration can make them a challenge to spot, their calls are very distinctive. Listen for percussion-like rattles and knocks in dense, wooded habitats, and you may get a chance to glimpse this slender bird in the wild.
Like many birds, cuckoos are susceptible to injuries caused by human-made structures, including window strikes, vehicle collisions, and communication towers. Homeowners concerned about local bird populations can take simple measures to prevent such accidents. Adding window decals, closing blinds, or installing reflective deterrents are effective steps toward creating a safer environment for both resident and migratory birds.
If recovery continues as expected, this Yellow-billed Cuckoo will eventually be moved to an outdoor enclosure for flight conditioning and monitoring before being released into the wild. With appropriate care and rest, CROW’s goal is to return the bird to its natural habitat — just in time for Florida’s breeding season.
Leave a Comment