Edolisoma montanum
The Black-bellied Cuckooshrike, *Edolisoma montanum*, is a striking passerine endemic to the montane forests of New Guinea and its surrounding islands. Measuring approximately 20-22 cm in length, this species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism. Males are entirely glossy black, presenting a sleek, uniform appearance that contrasts with their dark iris and black bill and legs. Females, however, feature a more complex plumage: a black head, duller blackish upperparts, grey underparts, and a d...
Exclusively found in montane forests, forest edges, and secondary growth, typically at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 3,000 meters above sea level.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on cicadas, beetles, and caterpillars, supplemented with some fruit, all gleaned from vegetation.
The Black-bellied Cuckooshrike is a diurnal species, active throughout the day, foraging primarily in the canopy and subcanopy layers of montane forests. These birds typically move singly or in pairs, though they are frequently observed joining mixed-species foraging flocks, especially with other...
The Black-bellied Cuckooshrike is endemic to the island of New Guinea and several nearby satellite islands in the southwestern Pacific. Its distribution encompasses the extensive mountain ranges throughout the main island of New Guinea, spanning both the Indonesian provinces of West Papua and Pap...
Least Concern
- It is often referred to as the "Black-bellied Cicadabird" due to its distinctive, high-pitched, cicada-like vocalizations. - Males are entirely glossy black, creating a stark contrast with the grey and white underparts and black head of the females, showcasing extreme sexual dimorphism. - This ...