Coracina kochii
The Mindanao Cuckooshrike (Coracina kochii) is a striking, medium-sized passerine, reaching approximately 24-26 cm in length with a robust build. Males are entirely clad in a glossy, iridescent blue-black plumage, distinguished by a subtle darker facial mask, contrasting with their dark eyes, bill, and legs. Females are similar in size but exhibit a duller, more sooty grey-black coloration, lacking the intense blue gloss of the male, representing a clear sexual dimorphism. This species is end...
This cuckooshrike inhabits primary and mature secondary moist montane forests, typically found at elevations ranging from 900 to 2000 meters, occasionally venturing lower to 300 meters or higher to 2400 meters.
Their diet primarily consists of insects, including larvae, beetles, and mantises, supplemented occasionally with small fruits, all gleaned from foliage and bark within the forest canopy.
Mindanao Cuckooshrikes are primarily arboreal, observed foraging quietly within the dense canopy of montane forests, often in pairs or small family groups. They primarily employ a gleaning strategy, methodically searching foliage and bark for insects, though they may also perform short aerial sal...
The Mindanao Cuckooshrike is entirely endemic to the island of Mindanao in the southern Philippines, with no records from any other islands or regions. It is a resident species, non-migratory, and found year-round within its specific habitat. Its distribution across Mindanao is patchy, restricted...
Near Threatened
- The Mindanao Cuckooshrike is a true Philippine endemic, found nowhere else in the world except the island of Mindanao. - Despite its name, cuckooshrikes are not closely related to cuckoos, nor are they shrikes; their name comes from their cuckoo-like calls and shrike-like bill. - Males possess ...