Barred Long-tailed Cuckoo
NameBarred Long-tailed Cuckoo
Common NameBarred Long-tailed Cuckoo
Scientific NameCercococcyx montanus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)31.5
Weight (g)65
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown, often with a rufous tinge on the head and nape. The underparts are whitish with heavy dark brown barring, especially on the flanks and belly. The long tail is distinctly barred with dark brown and white or buff. It features a prominent yellow eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, mournful, descending series of whistles, often described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'pee-pee-pee-pee-peee-peee-peee'. It can also produce a rapid, accelerating series of notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in montane regions from eastern Nigeria and Cameroon, through the Albertine Rift, to Kenya and Tanzania.
Identifying FeaturesLong, distinctly barred tail, Dark brown upperparts, Heavily barred whitish underparts, Yellow eye-ring, Secretive forest behavior, Mournful, descending whistle call
Description
A medium-sized cuckoo characterized by its long, distinctly barred tail and secretive nature. It typically inhabits dense montane forests, where it forages for insects. This species is often heard more than seen due to its preference for dense undergrowth.
