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.
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
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
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.
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.
Plumage
Glossy black head, throat, and upper breast contrasting with a whitish belly and flanks; rich rufous-chestnut wings; long, graduated black tail.
Diet
Primarily feeds on large insects such as grasshoppers, beetles, and caterpillars, as well as spiders and snails. It also takes small vertebrates including frogs, lizards, and occasionally small rodents or nestlings. Prey is typically seized on or near the ground and swallowed whole or torn apart with the bill.
Preferred Environment
Forages within dense tangles, rank grasses, and along the margins of swamps and forest edges. Often hunts by stalking slowly through cover, pausing to pounce on movement.
