The black-faced coucal is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is endemic to the Philippines found in the islands of Mindanao, Basilan Dinagat Islands Bohol, Leyte, Biliran and Samar. It is a striking coucal with its cream head contrasted with a black mask and tail and chestnut wings. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
Mindanao and Eastern Visayas, Philippines
Typical Environment
Occurs on Mindanao, Basilan, Dinagat, Bohol, Leyte, Biliran, and Samar. It inhabits tropical moist lowland forests, especially areas with dense understory and thickets. The species also uses forest edges, secondary growth, and scrub, and may persist in selectively logged forest where cover remains. It is typically secretive, moving low in vegetation and along the forest floor.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Unlike many cuckoos, coucals build their own nests and raise their young rather than parasitizing other birds. The black-faced coucal is a shy, ground-frequenting species that skulks through dense undergrowth. Pairs often duet with deep, booming notes that carry far in forest habitats.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs that maintain territories within dense cover. Builds a bulky domed nest of leaves and grasses low in shrubs or in tangles. Both sexes are believed to share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Deep, resonant booming notes delivered in a slow series, often as coordinated duets between pair members. Calls carry through forest and are used for territory advertisement and contact.
