Hierococcyx fugax
The Malaysian Hawk-Cuckoo, *Hierococcyx fugax*, is a medium-sized, elusive cuckoo measuring approximately 28-32 cm (11-12.5 inches) with a slender build that often gives it a hawk-like appearance, a characteristic reflected in its common name. Adults sport a grey head, back, and wings, contrasted by a pristine white throat and chest. Its most distinctive field marks include a prominent yellow eye-ring and iris, a dark eye-stripe, and underparts that are conspicuously barred rufous-brown to bl...
Primarily inhabits broadleaf evergreen and deciduous forests, preferring forest edges, open woodlands, secondary growth, and plantations from lowlands up to elevations of 1,600-2,000 meters.
Feeds primarily on large insects, with a particular fondness for caterpillars (including hairy ones), as well as grasshoppers, mantises, beetles, and cicadas, which it gleans from foliage.
This diurnal cuckoo is notoriously shy and often heard more than seen, spending much of its time concealed in the forest canopy. It employs an arboreal foraging strategy, gleaning large insects, especially caterpillars, from foliage after short, stealthy flights from a quiet perch. Males are high...
The Malaysian Hawk-Cuckoo boasts a wide distribution across East and Southeast Asia, encompassing both resident and migratory populations. Its breeding range extends from the Himalayan foothills, northeastern India, southern China, Myanmar, and Indochina, north to Japan, South Korea, and the Russ...
Least Concern
- The Malaysian Hawk-Cuckoo is an obligate brood parasite, never building its own nest but laying its eggs in the nests of other species. - Its common name reflects its striking resemblance to small raptors, a form of mimicry that may deter predators or even potential host parents. - Unlike most ...