The dusky megapode, also known as dusky scrubfowl or common megapode, is a medium-sized, approximately 41 cm long, blackish bird with a short pointed crest, bare red facial skin, dark legs, brown irises, and a dark brown and yellow bill. The male and female are similar. This terrestrial species lives in forests and swamps, including mangroves, of the Maluku and Raja Ampat Islands in Indonesia. Like other megapodes, it lays its eggs in a mound made from earth mixed with leaves, sand, gravel, and sticks, which can be as large as 11 m (36 ft) in diameter and stand nearly 5 m (16 ft) tall.
Region
Eastern Indonesia
Typical Environment
Occurs on the Maluku and Raja Ampat Islands, where it inhabits lowland forests, secondary woodland, and coastal thickets. It is particularly associated with mangroves, beach forest, and scrub near sandy or loose soils suitable for mound building. Birds forage mostly on the forest floor, often along edges and clearings. Nest mounds are typically placed in well-drained sites and may be used communally or by the same pair over multiple seasons.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This megapode incubates its eggs in large mounds of sand and decomposing vegetation, letting natural heat do the work. Chicks hatch fully feathered and independent, capable of running and even flying shortly after emergence. Pairs often reuse and maintain the same mound for years, adding and removing material to regulate temperature.
Temperament
secretive and terrestrial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining and defending access to nesting mounds. Both sexes tend the mound, adding or removing material to control temperature. Chicks hatch with no parental care required and disperse immediately.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include loud cackling and clucking calls, often given at dawn and dusk. Duet-like exchanges and harsh alarm notes are common when disturbed near mounds.
