Red-shouldered Cuckooshrike
NameRed-shouldered Cuckooshrike
Common NameRed-shouldered Cuckooshrike
Scientific NameCampephaga phoenicea
FamilyCampephagidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)35
Plumage DetailsMales are entirely glossy black with an iridescent green sheen and prominent bright red patches on the shoulders. Females are duller, dark brown or blackish on the upperparts, often with fine barring on the underparts, and lack the red shoulder patches.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of clear, whistling notes, sometimes described as a 'twee-twee-twee', and a more complex, melodious song. They can also produce harsh churring calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to Angola and northern South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesMales: glossy black plumage with bright red shoulder patches, Females: duller, often barred, lacking red shoulders, Arboreal foraging behavior
Description
This medium-sized passerine is sexually dimorphic, with males displaying glossy black plumage and striking red shoulder patches. They are arboreal birds, typically found foraging for insects high in the canopy of trees.
