Moluccan Drongo-Cuckoo
NameMoluccan Drongo-Cuckoo
Common NameMoluccan Drongo-Cuckoo
Scientific NameSurniculus dicruroides
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)23
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is entirely glossy black, often with a subtle blue or green sheen in good light. The underside of the deeply forked tail feathers may show faint pale barring, which can be visible when the tail is fanned.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of clear, ascending or descending whistling notes, often described as 'pi-pi-pi-piu' or 'tee-tee-tee-tew'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across Southeast Asia, including parts of the Indian subcontinent, Indochina, the Greater Sundas, and extending to the Moluccas, where specific subspecies occur.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black plumage, Deeply forked tail, Mimics drongos in appearance, Distinctive whistling calls
Description
This small, slender cuckoo is entirely glossy black, closely mimicking the appearance of drongos, especially its deeply forked tail. It is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species rather than raising its own young.
