Celebesica abbotti
The Pygmy Cuckooshrike, *Celebesica abbotti*, is a small, enigmatic passerine endemic to Sulawesi and nearby islands, known for its distinctive calls. Measuring approximately 15-16 cm in length, it exhibits a largely plain grey plumage, with darker grey upperparts and a paler, whitish belly and vent. A subtle but distinctive pale yellowish or whitish iris, often accompanied by a faint pale eye-ring, are key field marks that help distinguish it from other cuckooshrikes in its range. Taxonomica...
Inhabits primary and tall secondary evergreen forests, including forest edges and plantations with large trees. Primarily found in lowland areas, ranging up to 1000-1200 meters elevation.
Primarily an insectivore, consuming a variety of insects such as caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, and cicadas. It forages by gleaning prey from foliage and branches in the forest canopy.
The Pygmy Cuckooshrike is primarily an arboreal species, active during the day and typically roosting within the dense canopy. It employs a foraging strategy of actively gleaning insects from foliage and branches, often moving methodically through the mid-story and canopy. While often observed si...
The Pygmy Cuckooshrike is strictly endemic to the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, and a few immediate offshore islands including Buton and Muna. This species is a non-migratory resident throughout its distribution. Its range covers a substantial portion of Sulawesi's lowlands and foothills, genera...
Least Concern
- The Pygmy Cuckooshrike is the sole member of its genus, *Celebesica*, making it a unique evolutionary lineage within the cuckooshrike family. - Despite its name, Pygmy Cuckooshrikes are not closely related to true cuckoos; the "cuckoo" part of its name refers to the scalloped feathering of some...