Centropus unirufus
The Rufous Coucal (Centropus unirufus) is a striking, medium-large cuckoo species endemic to the Philippines, known for its uniformly rufous (reddish-brown) plumage. Adults typically measure between 42 and 47 cm (16.5-18.5 inches) in length, featuring a robust, dark bill and sturdy dark legs. Its most distinctive field mark is the complete absence of streaking or contrasting black coloration, making it unique among many of its coucal relatives. Taxonomically, it belongs to the Centropodinae s...
This coucal primarily inhabits dense lowland and lower montane tropical forests, including primary and secondary growth, often found in forest edges and clearings with thick undergrowth. It is typically found from sea level up to approximately 1200 meters (4000 feet) elevation.
Mainly feeds on large insects (e.g., mantises, cicadas, crickets, beetles, caterpillars) and spiders. It also preys opportunistically on small vertebrates such as lizards, frogs, small snakes, rodents, and the eggs and nestlings of other birds. Forages primarily by gleaning on the ground and with...
The Rufous Coucal is a highly secretive bird, often observed creeping stealthily through dense tangles of vines and shrubs close to the ground, rarely venturing into the open. It flies short distances with a heavy, somewhat floppy flight style, preferring to move through vegetation. Foraging invo...
The Rufous Coucal is strictly endemic to the Philippines, where it is distributed across several major islands. Its primary range includes Luzon, Catanduanes, Marinduque, Samar, Leyte, Bohol, and Mindanao. This species is predominantly found in lowland and lower montane tropical rainforests, typi...
Near Threatened
- The Rufous Coucal is one of the few cuckoo species worldwide that builds its own nest and raises its young, breaking the parasitic stereotype of its family. - Its scientific name, *unirufus*, directly translates to "uniform rufous," perfectly describing its distinct, unpatterned reddish-brown p...