Black-headed Cuckooshrike
NameBlack-headed Cuckooshrike
Common NameBlack-headed Cuckooshrike
Scientific NameLalage melanoptera
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)26.5
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a glossy black head, throat, and upper breast, contrasting sharply with the dark grey back, rump, and underparts. The wings are blackish with prominent white edges to the flight feathers, creating a barred effect when folded. The tail is dark grey with white tips on the outer feathers. Females and immatures are generally duller, with a grey head and often some barring on the underparts.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of clear, whistling notes, often described as a repeated 'twee-twee-twee' or 'swee-swee-swee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and parts of Malaysia.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black head (male), Dark grey body, Blackish wings with white edges, Arboreal behavior, Whistling call
Description
This medium-sized passerine is characterized by the striking contrast between its glossy black head and dark grey body. It is an arboreal species, typically found foraging for insects in the canopy of various wooded habitats.
