Rufous-vented Ground-Cuckoo
NameRufous-vented Ground-Cuckoo
Common NameRufous-vented Ground-Cuckoo
Scientific NameNeomorphus geoffroyi
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)65
Length (cm)49.5
Weight (g)400
Plumage DetailsThe Rufous-vented Ground-Cuckoo has a rufous-brown head and neck, topped with a distinctive blue-black crest. Its back and wings are an iridescent purplish-chestnut, contrasting with a rufous-brown breast and belly, which is marked by a black band across the chest. The vent area is rufous, and it has a pale greenish-yellow bill and a dark mask around the eye.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of deep, booming hoots, often described as 'whoop-whoop-whoop' or 'coo-coo-coo,' typically delivered from the ground.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusvulnerable
Geographic RangeFound in fragmented populations across the humid tropical rainforests of Central and South America, from Nicaragua south through Costa Rica and Panama, and into parts of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, and Brazil.
Identifying FeaturesProminent blue-black crest, Iridescent purplish-chestnut back and wings, Rufous vent, Pale greenish-yellow bill, Terrestrial habits, Deep booming calls
Description
This large, terrestrial cuckoo is characterized by its striking plumage and prominent crest. It is a secretive bird, typically found walking on the forest floor, often following army ant swarms to forage for prey.
