White-browed Coucal
NameWhite-browed Coucal
Common NameWhite-browed Coucal
Scientific NameCentropus superciliosus
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)45
Length (cm)39
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsThe head, nape, and upper back are blackish-brown with fine white streaking, forming a prominent white supercilium. The wings are bright rufous-chestnut, contrasting with the black lower back, rump, and long black tail. Underparts are creamy white, and the eyes are red with a black bill.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive liquid, bubbling call, often described as a series of 'coo-coo-coo' notes that accelerate and descend in pitch, resembling water pouring from a bottle.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, urban, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, ranging from Senegal east to Ethiopia and south through eastern and southern Africa to South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesProminent white supercilium, Bright rufous-chestnut wings, Long black tail, Red eyes, Streaked head and back
Description
The White-browed Coucal is a medium-sized, terrestrial cuckoo characterized by its striking white eyebrow and rufous wings. It typically skulks in dense vegetation, feeding on a variety of invertebrates and small vertebrates.
