We propose a novel cuckoo optimization algorithm called snap-drift cuckoo search (SDCS). The proposed SDCS employs reinforcement learning principles and improved search operators to achieve a more rapid and robust algorithm. The improved algorithm compared with cuckoo search (CS) and its several extensions. The improved algorithm compared with state-of-the algorithms and their variants. Statistical comparisons of experimental results show that SDCS is superior to the other algorithms in terms of convergence speed and robustness.