Anis Cuckoos and Roadrunners: Cuculiformes

Most cuckoos are solitary, staying alone until they pair up to breed. Many species are monogamous (muh-NAH-guh-mus), mating with the same bird for life. About fifty cuckoo species are brood parasites. The female lays eggs in the nests of other birds. She leaves one egg in the nest, expecting the other bird to care for her hatchling. Some cuckoos leave their eggs in a particular species' nest, but other cuckoos may use many hosts, birds that care for the cuckoo's eggs and young.

Anis live in groups and build nests after breeding. They are helped by cooperative breeders. Helpers, usually older offspring, help the parents care for the hatched birds. Roadrunners also nest and care for their young.