Edolisoma coerulescens
The Blackish Cuckooshrike (Edolisoma coerulescens) is a striking, medium-sized passerine endemic to the Philippines, typically measuring between 20-22 cm (8-9 inches) in length. Males are uniformly dark slate-grey to blackish-blue, often exhibiting a subtle, iridescent blue-purple sheen, particularly noticeable in good light. Their dark plumage, coupled with dark eyes, bill, and legs, makes for an inconspicuous yet elegant appearance. Females are very similar, perhaps slightly duller or more ...
This species inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland and lower montane forest, favoring dense canopy and forest edges. It is typically found from sea level up to elevations of around 1,500 meters.
Its diet primarily consists of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers, which it gleans from leaves and branches. It also supplements its insectivorous diet with small fruits.
The Blackish Cuckooshrike is primarily arboreal and often inconspicuous, spending its days foraging quietly within the forest canopy and subcanopy. It is typically observed singly or in pairs, though it may occasionally join mixed-species feeding flocks, particularly when foraging for insects. It...
The Blackish Cuckooshrike is endemic to the Philippines, with a distribution across several major and minor islands. Its primary range includes the northern island of Luzon and nearby Catanduanes, as well as the central islands of Samar and Dinagat. Further south, it is found on Mindanao and Basi...
Least Concern
- Despite its name, the Blackish Cuckooshrike is not related to cuckoos; the "cuckoo" part of its name refers to its similar size and shape to some cuckoos. - Its scientific name, *coerulescens*, is Latin for "bluish" or "dark blue," accurately describing the subtle sheen on its dark plumage. - T...