The dwarf koel is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is monotypic within the genus Microdynamis. It is found in New Guinea, where its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. Its closest relatives are the Eudynamys.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout New Guinea’s lowland and lower hill forests, including primary rainforest, secondary growth, riverine forest, and forest edges. It frequents fruiting trees in the midstory to canopy and may enter garden-forest mosaics where tall trees persist. The species is more often heard than seen, moving between fruiting sites in dense foliage. It avoids open habitats but tolerates lightly disturbed forest.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small cuckoo of New Guinea’s lowland forests, the dwarf koel is the sole species in the genus Microdynamis. Like other koels, it is believed to be a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other birds. Males and females look very different, with males glossy black and females brown and barred. It keeps mostly to the canopy and is often detected by its clear, whistled calls.
Temperament
secretive and canopy-dwelling
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct dashes between trees
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs; gathers loosely at fruiting trees. Breeding behavior is inconspicuous; like other koels, it is presumed to be a brood parasite and does not build its own nest. Males vocalize persistently during the breeding period to advertise territory and attract mates.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, rising whistles and piping notes, often in repeated series from the canopy. Calls carry well through forest and are a primary means of detection.
Plumage
Male is glossy black with a greenish sheen; female is brown with heavy buff and whitish barring and spotting, and paler, streaked underparts. Tail is relatively long with pale bars and tips, more evident in females. Plumage appears sleek and smooth in males; females show a more mottled, patterned appearance.
Diet
Feeds mainly on fruit, especially figs and other soft, pulpy fruits taken high in the canopy. It supplements with insects and other small arthropods when available. Foraging is deliberate, plucking fruit and gleaning from foliage and small branches.
Preferred Environment
Primarily forages in the midstory to canopy of lowland rainforest and along forest edges with fruiting trees. It also visits secondary forest and tall garden trees when fruiting.
