
Yellow-billed Cuckoo Release:
This Yellow-billed Cuckoo was brought to Tucson Wildlife Center after being found grounded in a parking lot—likely the result of a window strike. On admission, the bird showed signs of blunt trauma and had pulmonary contusions (bruising in the lungs) but, fortunately, no fractures. During his rehabilitation, we also treated him for protozoan gastrointestinal parasites.
Yellow-billed Cuckoos are a threatened species in the western United States. Sometimes called “rain crows” for their arrival with the summer monsoon rains, these elusive birds are known for their low, croaking calls—especially during breeding season. Their return to southeastern Arizona coincides with the seasonal explosion of insect life brought on by the rains, providing the food they need to raise their young in our riparian woodlands.
Working closely with state and federal agencies, our team was able to successfully rehabilitate and release this cuckoo during his breeding season. We are proud to give this remarkable bird a second chance in the wild—and to contribute to the preservation of a species on the brink. If you would like to help patients like this Yellow-billed Cuckoo, click this link to donate,
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We appreciate it, as will all the wild animals in our care!


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