The Réunion cuckooshrike is a passerine bird in the cuckooshrike family. It is endemic to the island of Réunion, where it is restricted to two areas of mountain forest in the north of the island. Males are dark grey above and pale grey beneath, while females have dark brown upper parts and a streaked breast. The population has been declining and the range contracting, being currently about 16 square kilometres (6.2 sq mi), and the International Union for Conservation of Nature has rated the species as "critically endangered", with the possibility that the bird could be wiped out by a tropical storm. Conservation efforts are being made by attempting to control the cats and rats which prey on the chicks, and this seems to have resulted in the population stabilising.
Region
Mascarene Islands (Réunion)
Typical Environment
Extremely restricted to two neighboring tracts of high-elevation evergreen forest on the north side of Réunion, centered on the Roche Écrite massif (Plaine d’Affouches and Plaine des Chicots). It favors mature, humid montane forest with a closed canopy and dense midstory. Birds forage along forest edges, ridgelines, and gaps but rely on intact native vegetation for nesting. Occasional use of regenerating native forest occurs where structure resembles natural habitat. The range is compact and isolated, heightening vulnerability to severe storms.
Altitude Range
1200–1700 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also known locally as the “tuit-tuit” for its ringing call, the Réunion cuckooshrike is one of the rarest birds in the Mascarenes. It is confined to a tiny area of montane forest in the north of Réunion. Conservation programs focused on predator control (rats and feral cats) have helped halt declines, but the species remains highly vulnerable to cyclones and habitat disturbance.
Temperament
shy and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone, in pairs, or small family groups within defended territories. Monogamous pairs nest high in trees, building a small cup nest. Clutches are small and chicks are vulnerable to predation by rats and cats, prompting intensive management in breeding areas.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, ringing series of notes often rendered as “tuit-tuit,” given from canopy perches. Calls are simple but carry well in montane forest, with repeated phrases during territorial or pair contact.
Plumage
Male is slate-grey above with paler grey underparts, neat and uniform; female is dark brown above with clearly streaked, buffy-toned underparts. Plumage appears smooth and unbarred, with a slightly darker facial area.
Diet
Primarily insectivorous, gleaning beetles, caterpillars, and other arthropods from foliage and small branches. It probes bark crevices and occasionally makes short sallies to capture flying insects. Small amounts of soft fruit may be taken opportunistically.
Preferred Environment
Feeds in the mid- to upper canopy of humid montane forest, along forest edges and gaps where insect prey concentrates. Often forages methodically through native trees and dense foliage.
