Centropus nigrorufus
The Sunda Coucal (Centropus nigrorufus) is a striking, medium-sized cuckoo endemic to the Sundaic islands of Southeast Asia. Reaching approximately 46-55 cm in length and weighing around 180-260 grams, it is characterized by its glossy black head, breast, and back, which contrasts sharply with its vibrant rufous-chestnut wings and long, graduated black tail. Distinctive field marks include the prominent black plumage, bright rufous wings, and often a pale eye, making it stand out from other c...
Primarily found in dense, lowland vegetation, the Sunda Coucal inhabits secondary forests, forest edges, tangled scrub, plantations, and dense riverine growth from sea level up to approximately 1,200 meters.
The Sunda Coucal is primarily insectivorous, preying on large insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars, supplemented by spiders, small lizards, frogs, and sometimes eggs or nestlings of other birds. It forages by walking stealthily on the ground or clambering through dense vegetation.
The Sunda Coucal is a shy and secretive bird, typically active during the day, spending most of its time foraging on or near the ground, often in dense cover. It moves stealthily through tangles of vegetation, employing a slow, deliberate walk and occasionally short, heavy flights. Foraging invol...
The Sunda Coucal is endemic to the Sundaic biogeographical region of Southeast Asia. Its breeding range is restricted to the Greater Sunda Islands, specifically Sumatra, Java, and Borneo (including territories in Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia). It is distributed across lowland areas, primarily ...
Vulnerable
- Unlike most cuckoos, the Sunda Coucal is not a brood parasite; it builds its own nest and raises its young. - Its scientific name, *nigrorufus*, directly translates from Latin to "black and red," perfectly describing its striking plumage. - Sunda Coucals are notoriously shy and often heard more...