Philippine Megapode
NamePhilippine Megapode
Common NamePhilippine Megapode
Scientific NameMegapodius cumingii
FamilyMegapodiidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)40
Weight (g)900
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are dark brown to olive-brown, contrasting with darker, often greyish-brown or slate-grey underparts. The most striking feature is the bare, reddish skin around the eyes and lores, and strong dark legs and feet.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, far-carrying cackles, grunts, and crow-like calls, often heard at dawn and dusk. They can also produce booming or hooting sounds.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to the Philippines, Borneo, Sulawesi, and various smaller surrounding islands in Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesRed bare facial skin, Stocky build, Dark brown upperparts, Dark greyish underparts, Large feet, Ground-dwelling behavior
Description
The Philippine Megapode is a stocky, ground-dwelling bird characterized by its dark plumage and distinctive reddish bare facial skin. It is typically found foraging on the forest floor, scratching through leaf litter for food.
