The red-billed malkoha is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is found in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, and Thailand. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forests.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs in the Sundaic region and adjacent mainland, including southern Myanmar, Thailand, Peninsular Malaysia, Brunei, and Indonesia (Sumatra, Borneo, Java). It favors lowland and hill forests, edges, secondary growth, and mangrove margins with dense vines and thickets. Often seen in the mid-story to canopy where it creeps along branches and tangles. It adapts to selectively logged forest and large plantations with remnant tree cover but avoids very open areas.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Unlike many cuckoos, malkohas build their own nests and rear their young rather than practicing brood parasitism. The red bill and long, white-tipped tail make this species distinctive in the canopy. It forages methodically through dense foliage, often moving in pairs. Its presence is a good indicator of intact lowland forest edges and secondary growth.
At San Diego Zoo
Temperament
shy and skulking
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone, in pairs, or small family groups moving through dense foliage. Builds a shallow twig nest in thick vegetation. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding. Territorial displays include tail-fanning and soft calls.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are a series of low, hollow coos and clucking notes, interspersed with harsher chacks. Calls carry through forest edges but are often given from cover.
