Cuculus rochii
The Madagascar Cuckoo (Cuculus rochii) is a sleek, medium-sized avian species, typically measuring around 28-30 cm in length and weighing between 80-100 grams. Adults exhibit a distinctive slate-gray plumage across their head, back, and wings, contrasting with a clean white belly that features variable dark gray or black barring, particularly on the flanks. A prominent yellow orbital ring encircles their dark brown eyes, complemented by a bill that is dark above and yellowish on the lower man...
Found in a variety of forested and open woodland habitats, including forest edges, secondary growth, and areas with scattered trees, from sea level up to elevations exceeding 2000 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, with a particular fondness for large caterpillars (including hairy varieties), as well as beetles, grasshoppers, and cicadas, often snatched from foliage or in flight.
Madagascar Cuckoos are largely solitary and diurnal, often observed perched quietly in the canopy or at forest edges, scanning for prey. Their foraging strategy involves sallying from a perch to catch large insects, particularly caterpillars, on foliage or in flight. As obligate brood parasites, ...
The Madagascar Cuckoo is an endemic breeder across the island of Madagascar, found widely from coastal lowlands to montane forests up to 2000 meters or more. Following the breeding season, it undertakes a significant intercontinental migration. Its wintering grounds are primarily located in easte...
Least Concern
- The Madagascar Cuckoo is an endemic breeder to the island of Madagascar, a hotspot of biodiversity. - Despite breeding on an island, it is a long-distance migrant, traveling annually to mainland Africa for the non-breeding season. - It is an obligate brood parasite, meaning it lays its eggs exc...