Coua caerulea
The Blue Coua (*Coua caerulea*) is an iconic and visually stunning member of the cuckoo family, endemic to the humid forests of Madagascar. Measuring approximately 50 cm (20 inches) in length, this medium-sized bird is unmistakable, boasting brilliant, iridescent cobalt-blue plumage across its entire body, including wings and tail. Its most distinctive field marks are the prominent bare, light-blue orbital skin patches encircling a bright red eye, contrasted by a black bill and feet. Taxonomi...
This species primarily inhabits the humid, evergreen lowland rainforests and littoral forests of eastern and northern Madagascar, typically found from sea level up to elevations of about 1200 meters.
The diet is omnivorous, consisting primarily of large insects such as cicadas, caterpillars, and beetles, supplemented by various fruits, and occasionally small vertebrates like chameleons and geckos.
The Blue Coua is predominantly arboreal but frequently descends to forage on the forest floor, displaying a versatile daily activity pattern. It is largely diurnal, active during daylight hours, often seen moving through dense foliage or bounding along branches. Foraging strategies involve gleani...
The Blue Coua is exclusively found within Madagascar, where it is widely distributed across the humid evergreen lowland and littoral forests of the island's eastern and northern regions. Its breeding range encompasses a broad band extending from the far north down to southeastern Madagascar, gene...
Least Concern
- The Blue Coua is one of only two cuckoo genera (Coua and Crotophaga) that are not brood parasites; it builds its own nest and raises its young, a rare trait among its relatives. - Its scientific name, *Coua caerulea*, directly translates to "blue coua," perfectly describing its striking iridesc...