Black Billed Cuckoo Birds Playing Cards

This vintage reproduction of John James Audubon’s Plate 32 from Birds of America captures a pair of elusive Black-Billed Cuckoos mid-flight, seemingly on a collision course as they hunt insects among the delicate blossoms of a flowering magnolia tree. Known for their soft, mellow cu-cu-cu calls, these shy birds are often heard more than seen, preferring the dense cover of trees and shrubs. Migrating vast distances from the northern United States to South America, Black-Billed Cuckoos have subtle brown, tan, and white plumage that appears almost gray when seen from below in flight. Audubon’s illustration brings out the lively interaction between the two cuckoos, showcasing the dynamic energy of these mysterious birds. Ideal for bird enthusiasts, art lovers, and those captivated by nature’s quieter wonders, this print celebrates the beauty of these secretive songbirds.