Greater Black Coucal
NameGreater Black Coucal
Common NameGreater Black Coucal
Scientific NameCentropus menbeki
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)500
Plumage DetailsEntirely glossy black plumage, often with a subtle purplish or greenish sheen in good light. Features distinctive bright red irises.
Vocalization / CallProduces a deep, booming 'hoo-hoo-hoo' call that often accelerates and descends in pitch. Also emits various guttural notes and chuckles.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago, inhabiting lowland and hill forests, as well as dense secondary growth and tall grasslands.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Entirely black plumage, Bright red eyes, Long, broad tail, Terrestrial behavior
Description
This large, terrestrial cuckoo is entirely covered in glossy black plumage, strikingly contrasted by its bright red eyes. It typically skulks in dense undergrowth, often walking on the ground or through low vegetation, rather than flying long distances.
