The rufous-winged ground cuckoo is a species of cuckoo in the tribe Neomorphini of subfamily Crotophaginae. It is found in Brazil, Guyana, Venezuela, and possibly Colombia.
Region
Guiana Shield and northern Amazon Basin
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland and foothill evergreen forests across the Guiana Shield, including northern Brazil, Guyana, and Venezuela, with possible occurrence in adjacent southeastern Colombia. It favors extensive tracts of primary terra firme forest with a dense leaf-litter layer and abundant fallen logs. The species also uses hilly and tepui-foothill forests and occasionally ventures into mature secondary growth but avoids open areas. It is highly terrestrial and requires relatively undisturbed interiors of forest for foraging and nesting.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive ground-cuckoo spends most of its time walking and running through dense rainforest, only flying in short bursts when necessary. It often follows army ant swarms and even foraging peccaries to snatch prey flushed from the leaf litter. A characteristic behavior is loud bill-clattering used in displays and territorial encounters. Its rufous wing panels are most obvious in flight or when it spreads its wings during threat postures.
Temperament
solitary and wary
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; mostly terrestrial runner
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs moving quietly along the forest floor. It follows army ants and sometimes mammals like peccaries to capture flushed prey. Nests are typically placed low in dense vegetation or on a low branch, with both adults likely sharing duties of incubation and chick care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations include low booming notes and deep hoots that carry through the forest understory. It also gives harsh cackles and performs loud bill-clattering during displays. The voice can be sporadic, with calls most frequent at dawn and in overcast conditions.
