Campephaga quiscalina
The Purple-throated Cuckooshrike (*Campephaga quiscalina*) is a striking passerine bird, known for its pronounced sexual dimorphism and often elusive nature within the forest canopy. Males are entirely glossy purplish-black, appearing dark green in certain lights, with a distinct, iridescent deep purple throat that serves as a key field mark. They measure approximately 19-21 cm in length and weigh between 25-35 grams. Females, in stark contrast, exhibit an olive-green back and head, with yell...
Found in tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, including primary and secondary growth, forest edges, and mature woodlands, typically from lowlands up to 2000 meters in elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, consuming a wide variety of insects such as caterpillars, beetles, and orthopterans, supplemented by small fruits.
This cuckooshrike is a diurnal species, spending most of its time gleaning insects from the dense foliage of the mid-story and canopy. Foraging involves meticulously searching leaves and branches, though it will occasionally sally forth to catch flying insects. Often observed solitarily or in pai...
The Purple-throated Cuckooshrike boasts a wide distribution across sub-Saharan Africa, extending from the West African nations of Sierra Leone and Liberia, eastward through Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, and the Central African Republic. Its range continues into the vast Congo Basin, encompassing coun...
Least Concern
- Despite its name, the Purple-throated Cuckooshrike is not closely related to true cuckoos (family Cuculidae) nor true shrikes (family Laniidae). - The male's iridescent purple throat patch can appear almost black or dark green depending on the light angle, a fascinating example of structural co...