The Biak coucal is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is endemic to West Papua, Indonesia.
Region
Papuan Islands (Cenderawasih Bay), Indonesia
Typical Environment
Occurs only on the forested islands of Biak and Supiori off the northern coast of New Guinea. It inhabits lowland and foothill rainforests, forest edges, and dense secondary growth with thick tangles. The species will use overgrown gardens and scrub near clearings and along streams, provided there is dense cover. It is typically a skulker, moving through vine tangles and tall grass rather than perching conspicuously.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Biak coucal is a large, ground-foraging cuckoo that, unlike many cuckoos, builds its own nest and rears its young. It is secretive, slipping through dense undergrowth and often betrayed only by its deep, resonant booming calls. Endemic to the small islands of Biak and Supiori, it is vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation. Its contrasting rufous wings and black, glossy body are classic coucal features.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; prefers to run or clamber through cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen alone or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense vegetation. Both sexes cooperate in building a bulky, domed nest hidden low in thick cover. Clutch is incubated and chicks are reared by both parents. Pairs communicate with deep duetted calls, especially at dawn.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A low, booming series of ‘oo-oo-oo’ notes that carry through forest, often given in slow sequences. Calls can escalate into duets between mates and may be repeated for long periods at dawn and dusk.
