The maleo is a large megapode and the only member of the monotypic genus Macrocephalon. The maleo is endemic to Sulawesi and the nearby smaller island of Buton in Indonesia. It is found in the tropical lowland and hill forests, but nests in the open sandy areas, volcanic soils, or beaches that are heated by the sun or geothermal energy for incubation.
Region
Sulawesi and nearby islands, Indonesia
Typical Environment
The maleo inhabits lowland and hill forests across Sulawesi and the nearby island of Buton. It roosts and forages in dense evergreen and secondary forests but depends on open sandy beaches or volcanic soils for nesting. Traditional nesting grounds are often near coastal dunes or geothermal vents where substrate temperatures are suitable for incubation. Birds may commute many kilometers between forest feeding areas and communal nesting sites. They avoid heavily urbanized zones but can persist in selectively logged forests if nesting sites are protected.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1100 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Maleos bury their very large eggs in sun-warmed sand or geothermal soils; the heat incubates them, so adults never brood. Chicks hatch fully feathered, dig themselves out, and can fly and fend for themselves within hours. The species forms nesting colonies and often travels long distances from forest roosts to traditional communal nesting grounds. Overharvesting of eggs and habitat loss have driven significant declines, prompting protection of key nesting beaches.
Temperament
shy and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with strong bursts
Social Behavior
Typically seen in pairs within forest habitat but gathers at traditional communal nesting grounds. Monogamous pairs cooperate to excavate deep nesting pits, but there is no parental care after the egg is laid. Chicks are superprecocial and independent immediately after emergence.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include mellow whistles, clucks, and soft cooing notes, especially around nesting sites. Calls are often given as contact notes between partners and can carry through the forest understory.
