There are a few birds that are known for making calls that sound similar to the ticking and chiming of a grandfather clock. The most common birds that produce this sound are certain species of doves, pigeons, cuckoos, and coucals.
Doves and Pigeons
Some species of doves and pigeons, particularly those in the genus Leptotila, are nicknamed “clock birds” for their vocalizations that resemble the ticking of a clock or grandfather clock. This includes species such as the White-tipped Dove, Grey-fronted Dove, Grenada Dove, and Tolima Dove.
These birds make a series of low-pitched, accelerating coo notes that speed up towards the end. The pattern of the vocalization sounds like “coo-OO-oo-OO-oo-OO.” When made repeatedly, it resembles the rapid ticking of a winding grandfather clock.
For example, the White-tipped Dove native to South America and the Caribbean has a call consisting of about 30 notes per series. Their calls have been likened to the accelerating clicking of a grandfather clock before it strikes the hour.
Cuckoos
Some species of cuckoos are also known for making calls that sound like the pendulum ticking of a grandfather clock. This includes the Common Cuckoo found throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa, as well as the Yellow-billed Cuckoo of North America.
The Common Cuckoo’s typical mating call consists of two alternating notes that speed up over time. The pattern goes “cuck-oo, cuck-oo, cuck-oo” with the notes getting progressively faster and more clipped together. This resembles the accelerating pendulum of a grandfather clock.
Meanwhile, the Yellow-billed Cuckoo makes a more variable call but with a similar quality. Its call starts with a series of slow, regular notes, then increases in pace until it becomes a hurried jumble of ticks as the climax is reached.
Coucals
Coucals are a group of cuckoo-like birds found in Africa and Asia. Some species, like the White-browed Coucal and the Black Coucal, are referred to as “clock birds” in their native regions due to vocalizations that sound like ticking.
The coucals make a repeated series of notes that get progressively faster, often ending in a hurried rattle, similar to a winding clock. The Black Coucal’s call accelerates from a steady “tok” to a hurried “tocktocktock” before trailing off.
Why the Tick-Tock Sounds?
There are a few theories as to why these birds evolved the ability to produce vocalizations that mimic grandfather clocks:
- To attract mates. The male “clock birds” may use these vocalizations during courtship displays to show off to females.
- To establish territories. The ticking calls act as a audible “keep out” sign to other males.
- Coincidental acoustics. The structure of their vocal cords and beaks may simply be naturally suited to producing accelerating coos and cuckoos.
The ticking grandfather clock sound is not intentional on the birds’ part, but more a byproduct of the physical attributes they use to vocalize and communicate with other members of their species.
Examples of “Clock Birds”
Here are some examples of birds with grandfather clock-like vocalizations:
Species | Region | Call Description |
---|---|---|
White-tipped Dove | South America, Caribbean | Series of 30+ coos that accelerate: “coo-OO-oo-OO-oo-OO” |
Common Cuckoo | Europe, Asia, Africa | Two alternating notes that speed up: “cuck-oo, cuck-oo, cuck-oo” |
Yellow-billed Cuckoo | North America | Slow coos accelerate into rapid clipped ticks |
Black Coucal | Sub-Saharan Africa | Repeated “tok” notes accelerate into “tocktocktock” |
Significance of Tick-Tock Bird Sounds
The ticking and chiming vocalizations of these birds have significance both for the birds themselves and for the human observers who hear them:
- Help the birds find mates and defend territories.
- Add unique and intriguing sounds to the landscape and soundscape.
- Act as auditory cues for ornithologists to identify species.
- Inspire nicknames like “clock bird” that reflect human impressions.
- Remind people of the comforting rhythm and routine of grandfather clocks.
These bird calls are a great example of nature’s endless variety. The ticking sounds blend into the overall symphony of birdsong in the habitats where these species live.
Conclusion
The distinct vocalizations of certain doves, pigeons, cuckoos, and coucals that mimic the sound of a ticking grandfather clock provide several benefits to the birds and create a unique acoustic experience for human listeners. While the birds don’t intentionally try to sound like clock pendulums, their cooing, cuckooing calls have evolved to take on this recognizable, accelerating rhythm. So next time you hear a bird that seems to be tick-tocking out in the field, take a look around to see if you can spot one of these fascinating “clock birds.”