Philippine Drongo-Cuckoo
NamePhilippine Drongo-Cuckoo
Common NamePhilippine Drongo-Cuckoo
Scientific NameSurniculus velutinus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsEntirely glossy black plumage, often with a small white patch on the undertail coverts, though this can be absent or reduced. The tail is slightly forked.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a series of clear, ascending whistling notes, often described as 'whee-whee-whee' or 'tee-tee-tee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the Philippines, found across various islands including Luzon, Mindanao, and the Visayas.
Identifying FeaturesGlossy black plumage, Drongo-like appearance with slightly forked tail, Small size for a cuckoo, Ascending whistling call, Brood parasitic behavior
Description
This small, glossy black cuckoo mimics drongos in appearance, featuring a slightly forked tail. It is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other bird species, particularly drongos. It inhabits forests across the Philippines.
