The blue-headed coucal is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is native to tropical central Africa where its typical habitat is swamps, river banks, forest edges and generally wet locations. It is a common bird with a wide range, and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated its conservation status as being of "least concern".
Region
Central and West Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs widely across tropical central Africa, especially within the Congo Basin and adjoining regions. It frequents swamps, papyrus stands, marsh edges, flooded grasslands, riverbanks, and forest margins. It also uses rank secondary growth, overgrown plantations, and village edges where wet thickets persist. The species relies on dense cover and is most often detected by voice rather than by sight.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The blue-headed coucal is a large, ground-favoring cuckoo that prefers dense, wet vegetation and often skulks more than it flies. Its head and underparts have a glossy blue-black sheen that contrasts with rich chestnut wings and a long, dark, green-glossed tail. Pairs keep close contact with deep, booming calls and bubbling duets. Like other coucals, it builds a domed nest hidden in reeds or thick tangles near water.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; prefers to clamber rather than fly
Social Behavior
Usually found singly or in pairs holding territories year-round. Builds a domed, leafy nest concealed in reeds or thick shrubs near water; both sexes participate in nesting. Young are tended by both parents and remain in dense cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Low, resonant booming series of coop-oo notes that carry far over wetlands. Also gives bubbling, cackling duets between mates and harsh scolds when disturbed.
