Black-throated coucal

The black-throated coucal is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is found in West Africa in dense second growth along forest edge and grassy swamps. The subspecies found in northern and central Zaire is sometimes split as Neumann's coucal.

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Distribution

Region

West and Central Africa

Typical Environment

Occurs from the Upper Guinea forest zone of West Africa eastward into parts of the Congo Basin. It lives in dense second growth, tangles along forest edges, and tall grassy or papyrus swamps. The species favors moist thickets near streams and wetlands and often avoids the deep interior of primary forest. It is most frequently encountered in areas with a mosaic of bushy cover and open glades.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size40–48 cm

Wing Span50–60 cm

Male Weight0.22 kg

Female Weight0.24 kg

Life Expectancy7 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The black-throated coucal is a large, ground-favoring cuckoo that skulks through dense undergrowth rather than flying long distances. It frequents forest edges, secondary growth, and swampy thickets across West and parts of Central Africa. Some populations in the Congo Basin have been treated as a separate taxon (Neumann's coucal) by certain authors.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

solitary and secretive

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with low, fluttering hops between cover

Social Behavior

Usually encountered singly or in pairs moving quietly through dense vegetation. Forms monogamous pairs during the breeding season and builds a bulky domed nest hidden in thick grass or shrubs. Both sexes likely share incubation and chick-rearing duties.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A series of deep, booming notes and resonant cooing phrases, often delivered as duets by a pair. Calls carry well at dawn and dusk and may include descending sequences typical of coucals.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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