Chestnut-breasted Malkoha
NameChestnut-breasted Malkoha
Common NameChestnut-breasted Malkoha
Scientific NamePhaenicophaeus curvirostris
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)33
Length (cm)45.5
Weight (g)145
Plumage DetailsThe head and nape are grey, contrasting with a large patch of bare red skin around the eye. The bill is stout, decurved, and pale greenish-yellow. Its upperparts, including the back and wings, are iridescent dark green to bluish-green, while the breast and belly are a rich chestnut color. It has a long, graduated dark tail with chestnut undertail feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of a series of harsh, croaking, or rattling notes, often described as a rapid 'kek-kek-kek' sequence or a drawn-out 'kraa-kraa-kraa'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Chestnut-breasted Malkoha is found across Southeast Asia, including the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, and various smaller surrounding islands.
Identifying FeaturesProminent bare red facial skin around the eye, Pale greenish-yellow, decurved bill, Grey head and nape, Iridescent dark green upperparts, Rich chestnut breast and belly, Long, graduated dark tail with chestnut undertail
Description
This medium-sized cuckoo is characterized by its striking appearance, featuring a grey head, prominent red facial skin, and a pale green bill. It typically moves deliberately through the dense undergrowth and canopy of tropical forests, foraging for large insects and other small prey.
