The stout-billed cuckooshrike is a species of bird in the family Campephagidae. It is found in the Aru Islands and New Guinea. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forest and subtropical or tropical moist montane forest.
Region
New Guinea and Aru Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout lowland and hill forests of New Guinea and the nearby Aru Islands, favoring primary and well-developed secondary rainforest. It uses forest edges, riverine corridors, and occasionally tall mangroves, but is most frequent in interior canopy. The species ranges from terra firme lowlands into lower montane zones. It is typically associated with continuous tree cover and avoids open habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This unobtrusive forest bird spends most of its time in the mid to upper canopy, where its bluish-grey plumage blends with shadowed foliage. It often joins mixed-species flocks and forages methodically, using its stout bill to glean prey from leaves and branches. Pairs are typically quiet and territorial during the breeding season, building a small cup nest on a horizontal fork. Its heavy bill and uniform coloration help distinguish it from similar cuckooshrikes of New Guinea.
Temperament
quiet and unobtrusive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches; direct, purposeful flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and often associates with mixed-species flocks while foraging. Territorial pairs defend a small area during breeding. The nest is a small, neat cup placed on a horizontal branch high in the canopy, where 1–2 eggs are laid. Both parents likely share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are soft, simple whistles and brief phrases, often delivered from within the canopy. It also gives dry, scolding calls during interactions or when alarmed.
