SPECIES LIST

Cuckoo

BREEDING CUCKOO

Cuckoos like large hairy caterpillars and have been seen catching Drinker Moth larvae (common amongst ditch-side grasses) on the Levels. Our Cuckoos lay their eggs in the nests of Reed Warblers and possibly Meadow Pipits. They arrive here at the earliest in late March. The distinctive male call can be heard most often in April and May.

There has been a serious decline in numbers nationally and that is reflected in the numbers returning here each year. A few years ago they were a commonplace sight over the Pevensey Levels, now it is a relief just to hear one and know that they are still hanging on. Numerous Cuckoos need both a healthy population of Reed Warblers and plenty of moth caterpillars. Only very good quality grazing marsh habitat can supply those.