Black-bellied Cuckoo
NameBlack-bellied Cuckoo
Common NameBlack-bellied Cuckoo
Scientific NamePhaenicophaeus diardi
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)110
Plumage DetailsThe Black-bellied Cuckoo has a rufous-chestnut body, a dark grey crown and nape, and a distinctive bright red bill. Its face features a prominent patch of bare blue skin around a yellow eye. The long tail is rufous with broad black subterminal bands and white tips on the outer feathers, while the belly is dark grey to black.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of a series of soft, low, mournful "hoo" notes that often accelerate and descend in pitch, sometimes described as a "kwa-kwa-kwa" series.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeThis species is native to Southeast Asia, with its range extending across the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo.
Identifying FeaturesRufous-chestnut body plumage, Dark grey crown and nape, Bright red bill, Blue bare skin around yellow eye, Long tail with black and white tips, Dark grey to black belly
Description
This medium-sized cuckoo is characterized by its striking rufous-chestnut plumage, contrasting with a dark grey head and a bright red bill. It inhabits dense lowland forests, where it typically forages in the understory for insects and other small prey.
