Dasylophus cumingi
The Scale-feathered Malkoha (*Dasylophus cumingi*) is a strikingly unique species of non-parasitic cuckoo endemic to the Philippines, immediately identifiable by its distinctive scale-like feathers. Measuring approximately 42 cm (16.5 in) in length and weighing around 180-200g, its plumage is a rich, glossy dark green to black on the back, contrasting sharply with the coppery-red, stiff, scale-like feathers covering its head, neck, and breast, which often display iridescent green edges. A pro...
This malkoha primarily inhabits dense lowland and foothill primary and secondary forests, often frequenting forest edges and tangled vine growth. It typically occurs at elevations below 1,000 meters.
The diet consists primarily of large insects, including caterpillars, grasshoppers, mantises, and stick insects, supplemented occasionally by small vertebrates like lizards or frogs, and some fruits. It forages by gleaning prey from foliage and branches.
The Scale-feathered Malkoha is a diurnal and arboreal species, often observed alone or in pairs, moving stealthily through dense undergrowth and mid-canopy. It employs a deliberate foraging strategy, gleaning large insects, such as caterpillars and mantises, from foliage and branches, often makin...
The Scale-feathered Malkoha is strictly endemic to the Philippines, primarily found on the major island of Luzon and a few smaller, adjacent islands within the archipelago. Its core distribution encompasses the lowlands and foothills of Luzon, extending to Polillo, Marinduque, and Catanduanes. Wi...
Least Concern
- The Scale-feathered Malkoha is one of only two malkoha species (the other being the Rough-crested Malkoha) endemic to the Philippines. - Unlike most cuckoos worldwide, this species is non-parasitic, meaning it builds its own nest and raises its own young. - Its common name directly refers to th...