Golden Cuckooshrike
NameGolden Cuckooshrike
Common NameGolden Cuckooshrike
Scientific NameCampephaga flava
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)25
Plumage DetailsMales are unmistakable with bright golden-yellow underparts, rump, and back, sharply contrasted by a glossy black head, throat, upper breast, wings, and tail. A small yellow patch is often visible on the shoulder. Females are duller, with olive-green upperparts, yellowish underparts with dark streaking, and a yellow eye-ring.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a series of high-pitched, clear, whistled notes, often described as a 'twee-twee-twee' or a more complex 'wee-twee-twee-twee-twee' song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, woodland, savanna
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of sub-Saharan Africa, from eastern South Africa north through East Africa to Ethiopia, and west into parts of Central Africa like Angola.
Identifying FeaturesBright golden-yellow body (male), Glossy black head, wings, and tail (male), Yellow shoulder patch (male), Slender build, Arboreal behavior
Description
The Golden Cuckooshrike is a striking passerine bird, with males displaying vibrant golden-yellow plumage contrasted by glossy black. It is an arboreal species, typically found foraging for insects high in the canopy of woodlands and forests across its African range.
