Black-faced Coucal
NameBlack-faced Coucal
Common NameBlack-faced Coucal
Scientific NameCentropus melanops
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)44
Weight (g)200
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features a distinctive black face, throat, and lores, with bright red irises. The nape and breast are creamy-buff to pale tawny, while the back and wings are rufous-chestnut. The tail is blackish-brown, and the bill and legs are black.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of deep, resonant 'hoo-hoo-hoo' calls, which often accelerate and descend in pitch, sometimes described as a bubbling sound.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Philippines, found on various islands including Luzon, Mindanao, Samar, Leyte, Bohol, and others, typically inhabiting dense secondary growth and forest edges.
Identifying FeaturesBlack face and throat, Bright red eyes, Creamy-buff nape and breast, Rufous-chestnut back and wings, Large, heavy black bill
Description
The Black-faced Coucal is a medium-sized, terrestrial cuckoo endemic to the Philippines. It is characterized by its striking black face and bright red eyes, contrasting with a creamy-buff head and underparts. This bird typically forages in dense undergrowth, often walking or running rather than flying.
