Senegal Coucal
NameSenegal Coucal
Common NameSenegal Coucal
Scientific NameCentropus senegalensis
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)40.5
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsThis species has a glossy black head, nape, and upper breast. The back, wings, and lower breast are a rich reddish-brown, transitioning to buffy-white on the belly. It possesses a long, graduated, glossy black tail and striking red eyes.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a deep, bubbling series of hooting notes, often described as 'coo-coo-coo' or a liquid 'doo-doo-doo' that accelerates and then fades.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, its range extends from Senegal in the west, east to Sudan and Ethiopia, and south through much of Central and East Africa to parts of Angola and northern South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesBlack head and nape, Reddish-brown back and wings, Long black tail, Red eyes, Pale streaked underparts
Description
The Senegal Coucal is a medium-sized, terrestrial cuckoo species characterized by its distinctive black head and reddish-brown plumage. It is often found foraging on the ground in dense vegetation, exhibiting a somewhat shy demeanor.
