The running coua is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is endemic to Madagascar.
Region
Western and southern Madagascar
Typical Environment
Occurs in arid spiny thicket, dry scrub, and open sandy flats with scattered euphorbias and didiereaceous vegetation. It favors areas with sparse understory where it can run swiftly and forage on the ground. Also uses edges of dry deciduous forest and degraded scrub near villages. Often seen along sandy tracks and dunes where cover is patchy.
Altitude Range
0–800 m
Climate Zone
Arid
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
A terrestrial cuckoo adapted to Madagascar’s dry spiny thickets, the running coua prefers sprinting to flight and uses its long tail for balance. Its vivid blue bare skin around the eye is a standout field mark. It often freezes when disturbed before dashing away on strong legs. Nests are typically low in shrubs, with pairs defending small territories.
Temperament
wary and mostly solitary
Flight Pattern
reluctant flier with short rapid wingbeats; primarily a runner
Social Behavior
Generally encountered alone or in pairs, maintaining small territories in suitable scrub. Breeding pairs build shallow cup nests low in shrubs or small trees and defend the immediate area. Clutch size is small, and both adults participate in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Voice consists of low, hollow cooing notes delivered in spaced series, carrying well in the still morning air. Also gives sharp, harsh alarm calls when flushed.
Plumage
Sandy-brown upperparts with paler, clean underparts and a whitish throat; long, graduated tail darker above with subtle sheen. Texture is smooth with minimal patterning to match arid habitats. Bare facial skin is strikingly blue around the eye.
Diet
Feeds mainly on ground-dwelling insects such as beetles, ants, termites, and grasshoppers. Will take small reptiles and other invertebrates when available. Supplements diet with fruits and berries during the dry season.
Preferred Environment
Forages on sandy soil and among leaf litter in open spiny thicket and scrubby edges. Often works along paths, shrub bases, and sunny openings where prey is active.
