Brood parasitism: Female cuckoos lay their eggs in the nests of other birds, exploiting the host bird's care for their offspring. This may seem mean, but it's a survival strategy for cuckoos, ensuring the survival of their own young.
Territorial defense: Like many other birds, cuckoos defend their territory against other birds of the same species to secure access to food and mates. This behavior isn't limited to cuckoos and is a natural instinct for many animals to protect their resources.
Egg destruction: Some cuckoo species may destroy or remove host bird eggs from nests when laying their own eggs. While this behavior can impact host bird reproduction, it's part of the cuckoo's evolutionary strategy to increase the chances of their offspring's survival.
It's essential to understand the ecological context and evolutionary history of these birds to avoid making value judgments about their behavior. Cuckoo birds are crucial components of their respective ecosystems and play roles in maintaining ecological balance. Studying and appreciating their behavior from a scientific perspective helps us understand the intricate web of life and the diversity of strategies employed by different organisms for survival.