Gabon Coucal
NameGabon Coucal
Common NameGabon Coucal
Scientific NameCentropus anselli
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)55
Length (cm)52
Weight (g)250
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and upper breast are glossy black, contrasting sharply with the rufous-chestnut mantle, back, and wings. The lower breast and belly are a warm buffy-orange, and it has a distinctive long, graduated black tail. The eyes are typically red.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of deep, bubbling hoots that often descend in pitch, sometimes described as 'hoo-hoo-hoo' or 'coo-coo-coo' sounds. These calls are typically slow and resonant.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in west-central Africa, its range extends from southeastern Nigeria through Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, and Congo, east to the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head and upper breast, Rufous-chestnut back and wings, Buffy-orange lower underparts, Long, graduated black tail, Red eyes
Description
The Gabon Coucal is a medium-sized cuckoo characterized by its striking black head and upper breast, contrasting with a rufous-chestnut back and wings. It possesses a long, graduated black tail and typically forages stealthily within dense undergrowth. This species is often heard before it is seen, moving through thick vegetation.
