The coral-billed ground cuckoo, also known as Renauld's ground cuckoo, is a large terrestrial species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. Its feathers have a glossy violet-black color. This bird can grow up to 65–70 centimeters in size. It is found in Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forest. These birds feed on small invertebrates or insects. Animals like Shrews, Squirrels, Snakes, and Macaques are great threats to these birds and their nests. Its English name refers to its coral-red bill, which separates it from the two other members of the genus Carpococcyx.
Region
Mainland Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Found in evergreen and semi-evergreen lowland to foothill forests of Cambodia, Laos, Thailand, and Vietnam. It favors dense, undisturbed forest with a closed canopy and thick leaf litter, often near streams or bamboo thickets. The species is predominantly terrestrial, moving by stealthy walking and short dashes rather than long flights. It avoids heavily degraded habitats and is highly sensitive to disturbance and hunting pressure.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of the few cuckoos that builds its own nest and raises its young, the coral-billed ground cuckoo is highly terrestrial and notoriously elusive. It often forages by following larger mammals to catch prey they flush, and its deep booming calls carry far through dense forest. The bright coral-red bill and cobalt facial skin make it unmistakable among ground-cuckoos.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
reluctant flier with short low flights and rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, moving quietly along the forest floor. Pairs are thought to be monogamous and maintain territories in dense forest. Nests are built on the ground or low in dense vegetation, with a small clutch typically of 1–2 eggs.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a series of deep, resonant booming notes, often given at dawn and dusk and audible over long distances. Also produces hollow whoops and low grunts during pair contact.
