Stamp of LATVIA 2023 - Birds of Latvia -  Common Cuckoo & Thrush Nightingale (2 stamps)

Found in woodland, heathland, farmland with hedges, marshes with scattered bushes. "COO-koo" song (like a cuckoo clock) often given from open perch. Note long wings and tail, barred belly, rather small bill. Flight direct and often low, suggesting a hawk or falcon. Extremely similar in appearance to various other Cuculus cuckoos across its range; note the combination of white vent, staring yellow irises, and overall large size. Lays eggs in nests of other birds, particularly pipits and reed warblers, which raise the young cuckoos. 

Very similar to Common Nightingale, but more dusky brown (not reddish-brown), with a duller and darker rufous tail and a mottled brown (not plain and sandy) breast. Their songs can be confusingly similar, but Thrush Nightingale is more monotonous, less varied, and slower, resembling that of Song Thrush. Calls include a bright but difficult-to-locate “teek”, and a low, dry rattle. Breeds in thick, damp, deciduous forest as well as well-wooded parks and gardens. Winters in tangled, often damp, thickets and brushy vegetation. Turns up in a wide range of habitats on passage, including drier areas. Feeds on invertebrates and berries.