The Solomons brush cuckoo is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is found on the Solomon Islands apart from Rennell Island. The species was formerly considered as conspecific with the Sahul brush cuckoo.
Region
Southwest Pacific (Solomon Islands)
Typical Environment
Occurs across lowland and hill forests throughout much of the Solomon Islands, excluding Rennell. It frequents primary rainforest, forest edges, secondary growth, and wooded gardens. The species often forages in the mid-story and canopy, moving quietly through foliage. It adapts to disturbed habitats provided there is sufficient tree cover.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Solomons brush cuckoo is a brood parasite, laying its eggs in the nests of other small forest birds and leaving the hosts to raise its chicks. It inhabits most of the Solomon Islands archipelago (excluding Rennell) and is typically heard more often than seen. It was formerly treated as part of the Sahul brush cuckoo complex but is now recognized as distinct based on vocal and distributional differences.
Temperament
solitary and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with brief glides
Social Behavior
Typically observed alone or in loose association with mixed-species flocks while foraging. It does not build its own nest and instead parasitizes the nests of small passerines. Courtship involves persistent vocalizations and chasing through mid-canopy. Nests of host species are selected in dense foliage.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, whistled notes delivered at regular intervals, often rising or slightly descending in pitch. Calls can carry far through forest and are a primary means of detection. Repetition can be persistent, especially at dawn.
Plumage
Upperparts warm brown to grey-brown with a subtly darker tail that shows whitish spots on the tips; underparts pale buff to whitish with a light rufous wash on the throat and breast, juveniles more heavily barred below.
Diet
Feeds mainly on insects, especially caterpillars (including hairy species), beetles, and orthopterans. It also takes spiders and other small arthropods gleaned from leaves and branches. Prey is usually taken by sallying from a perch or by careful gleaning while moving through the canopy. Occasional small berries may be taken but are a minor component.
Preferred Environment
Forages in mid-story to canopy of forest interior, edges, and older secondary growth. Will utilize wooded gardens and plantations with mature trees. Often keeps to shaded, leafy cover while searching for prey.
