What is the function of Channel-billed Cuckoo calling flights?

[Laurie Knight <>]

Channel-bills are (apparently) a bit different from other cuckoos in  
the sense that they are most likely to be observed calling while in  
flight.  In the last couple of weeks I have noticed groups of CBCs  
raising a racket.  This morning I saw a group of five flying and  
calling together.  I originally thought the calling flights might be  
territorial or associated with nest raiding, but I am now wondering if  
the calling flights play a role in "picking up" immature birds from  
their hosts and inducting them in CBC "culture".
Has anyone studied this aspect of CBC behaviour?

Regards, Laurie.
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