The black cuckooshrike is a species of bird in the cuckooshrike family Campephagidae. The species is closely related to Petit's cuckooshrike and the red-shouldered cuckooshrike, and forms a superspecies with them. It is also known as the African black cuckooshrike.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa (especially southern and central Africa)
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in woodland and savanna mosaics, including miombo, mopane and Acacia woodlands, riparian fringes, and well-wooded gardens. Prefers taller trees and spends much of its time in the mid- to upper canopy. Common in edges, clearings, and along river courses where insect prey is abundant. It adapts to lightly modified habitats but avoids treeless open grasslands and dense closed forest interiors.
Altitude Range
0–2200 m
Climate Zone
Subtropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite the name, cuckooshrikes are neither cuckoos nor shrikes; the group is named for a superficial resemblance to both. Males are glossy black and often flash a bright yellow shoulder panel in display, while females are more olive-yellow with streaked underparts. They are canopy dwellers that often join mixed-species flocks and make soft, fluty whistles from high perches.
Temperament
quiet and somewhat secretive in the canopy
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between trees
Social Behavior
Usually found singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often associates with mixed-species foraging parties. Likely monogamous, with a neat cup nest placed high in a tree. Both sexes participate in rearing the young, and adults are attentive but unobtrusive around the nest.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives soft, fluty whistles and mellow phrases from high perches. Calls are unobtrusive but carry in quiet woodland, often a series of plaintive, descending notes.
