The scaled ground cuckoo is a species of cuckoo in the tribe Neomorphini of subfamily Crotophaginae. It is endemic to the Amazon rainforest near the Tapajos River in Brazil.
Region
Amazon Basin (Tapajós interfluve, Brazil)
Typical Environment
Occurs in primary terra firme rainforest between major Amazonian rivers near the Tapajós. It favors tall, undisturbed forest with a dense leaf-litter layer and complex understory. The species is mostly terrestrial, ranging along ridges, creek margins, and quiet forest trails. It avoids open areas and is rarely seen in secondary or fragmented forest. Encounters are typically near army ant swarms or where mammal troops are active.
Altitude Range
0–400 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This elusive ground-dwelling cuckoo is known for shadowing army ant swarms and even peccary troops to snatch prey flushed from the leaf litter. It moves more like a pheasant than a typical cuckoo, sprinting through dense understory and flying only in short bursts. Its scaly-looking underparts give the species its name. Habitat loss in the Tapajós interfluve makes it a target for focused conservation surveys.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; prefers running
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs, moving quietly along the forest floor. Often follows army ants and foraging mammals to capture flushed prey. Nesting is thought to occur on low platforms or sturdy understory supports, with a small clutch and shared parental care. Displays are subtle, relying on voice and posture within dense cover.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives low, resonant whoop or hoo notes that carry far through the forest, often in a measured series. Also produces deep booming calls and clacking bill snaps when alarmed or excited.
Plumage
Upperparts dark olive-brown with a slight bronzy sheen; underparts show distinct dark edging on paler feathers, creating a scaly effect. Long, laterally compressed tail with pale tips and subtle barring. Short, slightly ragged crest and some bare bluish facial skin add to the distinctive look.
Diet
Primarily takes large insects such as orthopterans, beetles, and cockroaches, as well as spiders and centipedes. Will seize small vertebrates including frogs, lizards, and occasionally small snakes or nestlings. Opportunistic near ant swarms and mammal foraging parties, snatching prey flushed from leaf litter. May rarely consume fallen fruits, but animal prey dominates.
Preferred Environment
Forages on the shaded forest floor of mature terra firme, especially along quiet trails, stream banks, and around rotting logs. Frequently attends army ant swarms and areas of recent mammal disturbance for easier hunting.
