The red-billed ground cuckoo is a species of cuckoo in the tribe Neomorphini of subfamily Crotophaginae. It is found in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and possibly Ecuador.
Region
Western Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland tropical rainforest of western Amazonia, recorded in Brazil, Colombia, Peru, and possibly Ecuador. Prefers mature terra firme forest with a dense leaf-litter layer, but may also use seasonally flooded várzea and edges of gallery forests. Often found along shaded streambeds, bamboo thickets, and palm-rich understory where prey is abundant. It keeps to the forest floor, frequently accompanying ant swarms and mixed groups of large mammals. The species is generally scarce and highly local within suitable habitat.
Altitude Range
0–1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive ground-dwelling cuckoo often follows army-ant swarms and foraging mammals like peccaries or monkeys to snatch prey flushed from the leaf litter. It spends most of its time walking or running rather than flying, using short flights to cross gaps. Unlike many cuckoos, ground-cuckoos are not brood parasites and provide parental care. Its bright red bill is a key field mark in the dim understory.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief, low flights; prefers running
Social Behavior
Typically encountered alone or in pairs, moving quietly along the forest floor. Known for commensal foraging, following army ants and large mammals that flush prey. Builds its own nest and both sexes are believed to share incubation and care of the young. Territorial calling and bill-snapping displays occur during breeding periods.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include low, resonant hoots or booms that carry through dense forest, interspersed with rapid bill clacks. Calls are infrequent and given from concealed perches, aiding long-distance contact with mates. Alarm notes are harsher and more abrupt.
