The red-fronted coua is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is endemic to Madagascar.
Region
Eastern Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs in evergreen humid forests along the eastern escarpment of Madagascar, from lowland to mid-elevation rainforest. It favors dense understory and leaf-littered forest floors where it forages by walking and gleaning. The species also uses forest edges and selectively logged areas if sufficient cover remains. It avoids open habitats and heavily degraded landscapes.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The red-fronted coua is a ground-dwelling cuckoo endemic to Madagascar’s humid forests. Unlike many cuckoos, couas build their own nests and raise their young rather than practicing brood parasitism. They prefer to run through dense undergrowth and only fly short distances when flushed. Their soft, whistled calls carry through the forest, especially at dawn.
Temperament
shy and elusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; prefers to run
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining territories within dense forest. Builds a simple stick nest low in shrubs or small trees and lays a small clutch which both parents tend. Displays include tail-fanning and soft calling during courtship.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers mellow, whistled phrases that carry through the understory, often in repeated series. Calls are usually given at dawn and dusk and may include soft duets between pair members.
