The grey-headed cuckooshrike, also known as the grey-headed cicadabird or black-tipped cicadabird, is a species of bird in the family Campephagidae. It is found in New Guinea. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical mangrove forest.
Region
New Guinea and nearby islands
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout lowland New Guinea, including both the Papua New Guinea and Indonesian (Papua and West Papua) sides, with extensions into coastal mangrove systems. It favors subtropical and tropical moist lowland forest, forest edges, and second-growth. Mangrove forests along estuaries and coastal lagoons are regularly used. It is primarily a canopy and mid-storey species but will descend to edges and riverine strips.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the grey-headed cicadabird or black-tipped cicadabird, this species belongs to the cuckooshrike family (Campephagidae). It is a quiet canopy forager, often overlooked as it moves methodically through foliage. Pairs or small family groups are typical, and it frequents both primary forest and mangroves in New Guinea’s lowlands.
Temperament
quiet and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, level flight
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family parties, sometimes joining mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Builds a small cup nest high on exposed branches. Likely monogamous with both parents involved in care. Foraging is deliberate, gleaning and sallying among outer foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are subdued: soft whistled phrases and thin, cicada-like trills. Also gives brief harsh scolds and contact notes while foraging.
