Centropus toulou
The Malagasy Coucal, *Centropus toulou*, is a striking medium-sized cuckoo native to Madagascar and surrounding islands, typically measuring 40-50 cm (16-20 inches) in length. Adults are distinguished by their glossy black body plumage, contrasting richly with chestnut-rufous wings, and a remarkably long, broad black tail. Distinctive field marks include its strong, slightly decurved black bill and often red or dark eyes, along with its predominantly terrestrial demeanor. Taxonomically, it be...
Inhabits a wide variety of open and semi-open habitats, including grasslands, savannas, marshes, cultivated areas, and forest edges, typically from sea level up to around 1800 meters.
Primarily consumes large insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars, as well as spiders, small reptiles, amphibians, and occasionally small birds or their eggs; it forages almost exclusively on the ground.
Primarily diurnal and largely terrestrial, the Malagasy Coucal spends most of its time foraging stealthily on the ground or within dense low vegetation. It actively searches for prey, using its strong legs and bill to probe leaf litter and turn over debris. Males defend territories primarily thro...
The Malagasy Coucal is endemic to Madagascar and its surrounding island groups, including the Comoros (Grande Comore, Anjouan, Mohéli), Mayotte, and the Seychelles (Aldabra group). It is a year-round resident across its distribution, showing no migratory movements whatsoever. Within Madagascar, i...
Least Concern
- Unlike most other cuckoos, the Malagasy Coucal builds its own nest and raises its young, exhibiting no brood parasitism. - Its distinctive booming call, often described as a 'water bubbling' sound, can carry for considerable distances across its habitat. - Though a member of the cuckoo family, ...