Black Cicadabird
NameBlack Cicadabird
Common NameBlack Cicadabird
Scientific NameEdolisoma melas
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)35
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsAdult males are entirely glossy black. Females are similar, also appearing all black, though sometimes with a slightly duller or brownish-black hue. Juveniles have mottled plumage.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, high-pitched, buzzing or trilling call, often described as cicada-like, such as 'tzzzzzzzz' or 'zzzzzzzz-tzzzzzzzz'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Guinea and several surrounding islands, including the Bismarck Archipelago and parts of the Solomon Islands.
Identifying FeaturesEntirely glossy black plumage (adults), Medium size with a slender build, Cicada-like buzzing call, Found in forest canopy and mid-story
Description
The Black Cicadabird is a medium-sized, slender bird characterized by its entirely black plumage. It typically forages in the canopy and mid-story of forests, often moving deliberately through the foliage in search of insects.
