Pygmy Cuckooshrike
NamePygmy Cuckooshrike
Common NamePygmy Cuckooshrike
Scientific NameLalage adolphei
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)26
Length (cm)15.5
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsAdult males have a glossy black head, nape, and upperparts, including the wings and tail, sharply contrasting with pure white underparts from the throat to the undertail coverts. The eye is bright red. Females are similar but may have a slightly duller black and a greyish wash on the flanks.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include clear, sweet whistling notes, often delivered in a series, sometimes described as a repeated "wee-tew" or "wee-tew-tew" that can be ascending or descending.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, and some adjacent smaller islands such as Muna and Buton.
Identifying Featuresglossy black head and upperparts, pure white underparts, bright red eye, small size, active foraging in forest canopy
Description
This small cuckooshrike is characterized by its striking black head and upperparts contrasting with pure white underparts and a bright red eye. It is an active insectivore, typically found foraging in the mid-canopy of lowland forests, often in pairs or small family groups.
