The long-billed cuckoo is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. Found in the Aru Islands and New Guinea, its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests. This species was formerly placed in the genus Chrysococcyx.
Region
New Guinea and Aru Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in humid tropical lowland forests across New Guinea and on the Aru Islands. It favors primary and well-developed secondary rainforest, forest edges, and riverine gallery forest. Usually keeps to the understory and mid-story, moving quietly through dense foliage. It sometimes uses more open trails and edges but generally remains concealed.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A secretive forest cuckoo of New Guinea and the nearby Aru Islands, it is now placed in the monotypic genus Rhamphomantis after formerly being included in Chrysococcyx. True to its name, it has a notably long, slender bill for probing foliage. Like many cuckoos, it is believed to be a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of smaller songbirds. It is more often heard than seen, giving clear whistled calls from dense cover.
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs within dense forest. As with many cuckoos, it is believed to practice brood parasitism, placing eggs in the nests of smaller passerines. It keeps a low profile when foraging and often remains motionless for long periods within cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives a series of clear, whistled notes that may descend or rise and are repeated at intervals. Calls carry well through forest and are most often heard at quiet times of day. Vocalizations are a primary means of detection due to the bird’s secretive habits.
