Coua ruficeps
The Red-capped Coua (Coua ruficeps) is a strikingly beautiful and enigmatic bird, endemic to the unique dry forests of Madagascar. This medium-sized cuckoo, typically measuring 40-42 cm (15.5-16.5 inches), is instantly recognizable by its vivid plumage. Its most prominent field mark is the bright chestnut-red crown and nape, contrasting with greyish-brown upperparts and paler grey underparts. A striking feature common to many couas is the prominent patch of bare, bright blue skin encircling t...
Found in dry deciduous forests, spiny forests, and scrubland primarily in western and northern Madagascar. It inhabits low to mid-elevations, from sea level up to approximately 900 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, consuming caterpillars, beetles, and grasshoppers, but also includes a significant proportion of fruits, berries, and some leaves in its diet. It forages by gleaning from foliage, bark, and occasionally on the ground.
The Red-capped Coua exhibits predominantly diurnal activity, spending its days foraging actively within the mid-story and understory of its forest habitat, though it may occasionally descend to the ground or ascend to the canopy. It employs an agile foraging strategy, gleaning a variety of insect...
The Red-capped Coua is entirely endemic to Madagascar, where it is found predominantly in the western and northern dry deciduous forests, including coastal and sub-arid scrubland. Its range extends from the extreme north (e.g., Montagne d'Ambre National Park) southwards along the western dry belt...
Least Concern
- Unlike most Old World cuckoos, the Red-capped Coua is not a brood parasite; it builds its own nest and raises its own young. - Its genus, `Coua`, is entirely endemic to Madagascar, making it one of the island's unique avian treasures. - The species' name, `ruficeps`, is Latin for "red-headed," ...