Coracina guillemardi
The Sulu Cuckooshrike, *Coracina guillemardi*, is an enigmatic passerine bird endemic to the Sulu Archipelago in the southern Philippines. This medium-sized cuckooshrike measures approximately 22 cm (8.7 inches) in length, presenting a sleek, dark slate-grey plumage that allows it to blend seamlessly into its forested habitat. Males are distinguished by a prominent black mask covering the lores and eyes, contrasting with their otherwise uniformly dark body. Females exhibit a paler grey colora...
This species primarily inhabits primary and secondary lowland forest, forest edge, and dense secondary growth, occasionally venturing into disturbed areas and plantations. It is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level up to around 700 meters.
The primary diet consists of insects, including caterpillars, beetles, and other arthropods, which it gleans from foliage and branches. It may also occasionally consume small fruits.
The Sulu Cuckooshrike is a largely arboreal and often inconspicuous species, typically observed singly or in pairs as it methodically forages in the mid-story and canopy layers of its forest habitat. Its daily activity patterns are diurnal, with roosting likely occurring in dense foliage. Foragin...
The Sulu Cuckooshrike is strictly endemic to the Sulu Archipelago, a chain of islands located in the southwestern Philippines, between Mindanao and Borneo. Its historical distribution included islands such as Jolo, Sanga-Sanga, Tawitawi, and Sibutu, with unconfirmed past records from Basilan. The...
Endangered
- The Sulu Cuckooshrike is a true island endemic, found only within the limited confines of the Sulu Archipelago in the Philippines. - Its name 'cuckooshrike' refers to its somewhat cuckoo-like shape combined with a shrike-like bill, though it's not directly related to either. - Despite its relat...