Crested Coua
NameCrested Coua
Common NameCrested Coua
Scientific NameCoua cristata
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)32.5
Length (cm)42
Weight (g)150
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are greyish-blue, contrasting with a white belly and a pale rufous or buff wash on the throat and upper breast. It has a distinctive bare blue patch around the eye and a prominent grey crest. The long, graduated tail is dark blue-grey with white tips on the outer feathers.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of harsh, guttural 'coua-coua-coua' notes, often repeated. It can also produce a variety of other calls, including clucking sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to Madagascar, found throughout the island in various forest types, including dry deciduous, spiny, and gallery forests.
Identifying FeaturesProminent grey crest, Bare blue patch around eye, Long, graduated tail with white tips, Grey-blue upperparts, Pale rufous/buff breast
Description
The Crested Coua is a striking, medium-sized cuckoo endemic to Madagascar, characterized by its prominent grey crest and long tail. It is an arboreal bird, often seen foraging for insects and fruits within the forest canopy.
