QuoteThe study revealed that cuckoos employ two distinct strategies when parasitizing cavity nests. In some cases, females lay eggs from outside the nest entrance, effectively projecting the egg into the cavity. In others, they enter the nest chamber directly before laying.

Each strategy involves trade-offs. Laying from outside reduces the risk of becoming trapped inside the cavity but increases the likelihood of missing the nest entirely. Entering the cavity ensures accurate placement of the egg but carries risks, including disturbing the nest structure or becoming stuck.

https://phys.org/news/2026-04-hidden-cameras-debunk-myth-cuckoos.html