Lesser Ground-Cuckoo
NameLesser Ground-Cuckoo
Common NameLesser Ground-Cuckoo
Scientific NameNeomorphus pucheranii
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)70
Length (cm)46.5
Weight (g)335
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark greyish-brown with a greenish sheen, especially on the wings. The underparts are a rich rufous-chestnut, fading to buffy on the belly. The head features a prominent patch of bare bright blue skin around the eye, bordered by a white line above and a black line below. The bill is bright yellow.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include deep, booming 'hoo-hoo-hoo' calls, often given from the forest floor. It also produces a series of low hoots or grunts.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the western Amazon basin, specifically in eastern Peru, western Brazil, and northern Bolivia.
Identifying FeaturesBright blue bare skin around the eye, Bright yellow bill, Rufous-chestnut underparts, Dark greyish-brown upperparts with greenish sheen, Terrestrial behavior, often following army ant swarms
Description
The Lesser Ground-Cuckoo is a striking terrestrial cuckoo found in the Amazon basin. It is known for its vibrant facial markings and habit of foraging on the forest floor, often in association with army ant swarms.
