There are about 156 species in the Cuculiformes order. This group includes cuckoos, roadrunners, anis, and malkohas. They are found on every continent except Antarctica, with most species living in Africa, Asia, Australia, and Central and South America.
Birds in this order usually have slender, slightly curved bills, long tails, strong legs, and pointed wings. Many species are gray, brown, or olive-colored, although some have bold black, white, chestnut, or green plumage.
Most cuckoos live in forests and spend much of their time in trees. However, some species, such as roadrunners, live mostly on the ground in deserts and other dry habitats.
Most species eat insects, especially caterpillars that many other birds avoid. They also eat spiders, lizards, small snakes, rodents, birds’ eggs, and other small animals. Some species also eat fruit.
Cuculidae (cuckoos, roadrunners, anis)
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