Hierococcyx pectoralis
The Philippine Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx pectoralis) is a medium-sized cuckoo endemic to the Philippines, typically measuring 29-30 cm in length. This cryptic forest dweller exhibits a striking hawk-like appearance, a form of mimicry that likely deters potential predators. Adults feature a grayish head and nape, a brownish-grey back and wings, and a dark tail marked with pale bars. Its underparts are predominantly white to buff, conspicuously barred with rufous, contributing to its distinctive...
Found primarily in broadleaf primary and secondary forests, forest edges, and cultivated areas with scattered trees, ranging from lowlands up to approximately 2,000 meters in elevation.
Feeds predominantly on large insects, particularly hairy caterpillars, as well as beetles and other arthropods, gleaning them from tree foliage.
The Philippine Hawk-Cuckoo is a largely solitary and often cryptic bird, typically observed alone as it forages high in the canopy. Its daily activity is diurnal, and it is most vocal during the breeding season, with its distinctive calls often betraying its presence. As an obligate brood parasit...
The Philippine Hawk-Cuckoo is endemic to the Philippine archipelago, where it is a widespread resident breeder across many major islands. Its primary range includes Luzon, Mindoro, Palawan, Negros, Panay, Cebu, Mindanao, Samar, and Leyte, among others, indicating a robust distribution throughout ...
Least Concern
- The Philippine Hawk-Cuckoo is an obligate brood parasite, meaning it lays its eggs in the nests of other bird species, leaving its young to be raised by unsuspecting foster parents. - Its hawk-like appearance, including its barred underparts and overall shape, is a form of mimicry thought to de...