Blue-faced Malkoha
NameBlue-faced Malkoha
Common NameBlue-faced Malkoha
Scientific NamePhaenicophaeus viridirostris
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)40
Weight (g)110
Plumage DetailsOverall dark grey to sooty black plumage, often with a greenish sheen on the upperparts. The breast and belly are slightly paler grey. The most striking features are the bare, bright blue skin around the eye and the long, graduated tail with broad white tips on the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of low, guttural 'kwa' or 'kraw' notes, often repeated. It also produces soft 'churr' or 'chick' sounds.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Indian subcontinent, primarily found in southern India and Sri Lanka.
Identifying FeaturesLong, graduated tail with broad white tips, Bare bright blue skin around the eye, Pale yellowish-green bill, Overall dark grey plumage
Description
The Blue-faced Malkoha is a large, slender cuckoo characterized by its long, graduated tail and distinctive facial markings. It moves stealthily through dense vegetation, often seen alone or in pairs, foraging for insects and small prey.
