Large and lively, the squirrel cuckoo (Piaya cayana) has a tail that is 40.5 to 50 cm (15.9 to 19.7 in) long and weighs 95 to 120 grams (3.4 to 4.2 ounces). At maturity, the plumage of an adult bird changes from mostly brown on the back and head to a lighter, almost pinkish, shade on the throat. There is a grayish underbelly, an almost black belly, and reddish-brown middle tail feathers with white tips. Red eyes and a yellow beak characterize this bird.

In addition to a less white tail, juvenile birds have brown irises, a gray beak, and eye rings. Its yellow beak and matching cap color set it apart from the Black-bellied Cuckoo, but they look very similar. These birds can be seen all the way from northern Argentina to Trinidad and Uruguay, as well as northwest Mexico.

Forests, woodlands, and the areas immediately around them are ideal habitats for the squirrel cuckoo. In arid locations, it is common near water courses, in residential areas, among bushes and meadows with trees, and coffee plantations. Steer clear of wооdy regions that are dry..

Insects, cicadas, wasps, caterpillars, spiders, and tiny lizards make up the bulk of the squirrel cuckoo’s diet. Occasionally consuming fruit.

Using sticks and leaves from dancing trees or plants, a shallow cup-shaped nest is constructed during the breeding season. Incubation of the eggs takes place over the course of 18–20 days and can involve as many as three clutches laid by the female. Both sexes contribute to the care and feeding of the young birds.

Squirrel cuckoos seem to be somewhat tolerant of human interference so long as forests are present; they are abundant across much of their territory.