The ivory-billed coucal or greater black coucal is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is found in the Aru Islands and New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest.
Region
New Guinea and Aru Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland rainforests, forest edges, and secondary growth across New Guinea and the nearby Aru Islands. It favors dense tangles, thickets, and overgrown clearings where it can move largely on foot. The species also frequents swamp forest, sago groves, and riparian vegetation. It is generally absent from high montane habitats and very open country.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite being a cuckoo, the ivory-billed coucal is not a brood parasite; it builds its own domed nest and raises its young. Its pale, ivory-colored bill contrasts strikingly with its glossy black plumage. Like many coucals, the female is typically larger than the male and both sexes often duet with deep booming calls.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides; prefers to run or clamber through cover
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, maintaining territories in dense understory. Both sexes construct a large domed nest with a side entrance and share incubation and chick-rearing. Courtship often involves duetting and mutual preening in cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Low, booming series of whoom notes that carry far through forest, often given in duets. Also emits guttural croaks and grunts during close-range interactions.
