Maleo
NameMaleo
Common NameMaleo
Scientific NameMacrocephalon maleo
FamilyMegapodiidae
Wingspan (cm)85
Length (cm)57.5
Weight (g)1500
Plumage DetailsAdults have glossy black plumage on their upperparts, wings, and tail, contrasting sharply with pale pinkish-white underparts. The head is largely featherless, featuring a prominent, helmet-like black casque. The facial skin around the eyes is yellow, and the bill is yellowish-orange.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a loud, resonant 'kwa-kwa-kwa' call, often heard at dawn or dusk, and a deep booming sound.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal
Conservation Statusendangered
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of Sulawesi and a few nearby smaller islands (e.g., Buton, Sangihe) in Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesLarge black casque on head, Black upperparts, Pinkish-white underparts, Yellow facial skin, Yellowish-orange bill, Large feet, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Maleo is a large, ground-dwelling bird endemic to Sulawesi, Indonesia, known for its unique nesting strategy of burying eggs in sun-heated sand or volcanically warmed soil. It possesses a distinctive black casque on its head and striking black and pinkish-white plumage.
