The Manus brush cuckoo is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is found on the Ninigo and Admiralty Islands which lie to the north of New Guinea. The species was formerly considered as conspecific with the Sahul brush cuckoo.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
It inhabits lowland and hill forests, forest edges, and secondary growth across Manus and surrounding small islands. The species uses midstory to canopy strata but will also forage along shady edges, plantations, and coastal thickets. It tolerates a degree of habitat modification and may occur near villages and gardens where cover remains. Mangrove margins and limestone karst scrub are occasionally used where available.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 700 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Manus brush cuckoo is a member of the cuckoo family Cuculidae and is restricted to the Admiralty and nearby Ninigo Islands north of New Guinea. Like many cuckoos, it is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of smaller passerines. It was formerly treated as conspecific with the Sahul brush cuckoo, but is now recognized as a distinct island form, with voice a key feature for identification.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, low flights between cover
Social Behavior
Typically solitary outside of breeding, moving quietly through foliage while foraging. As a brood parasite, it does not build its own nest but deposits eggs in the nests of small passerines, relying on them to raise the young. Courtship and territory are advertised primarily by persistent vocalizations.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, repeated series of high, whistled phrases, often rising or falling in pairs, delivered persistently from concealed perches. Calls carry well through forest edges and second growth and are the best way to detect the species.
