The Buff-headed Coucal is a striking species of coucal found in the lowland forests of New Guinea. It is distinguished by its pale, buff-colored head contrasting with its glossy dark body and chestnut wings.
Where to spot
Native to New Guinea, inhabiting lowland rainforests, forest edges, and secondary growth throughout the island.
How to spot
Look for its pale head and dark body as it moves through dense undergrowth or perches on low branches. Listen for its distinctive deep, bubbling or hooting calls, which are often the best clue to its presence.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, often heard giving its characteristic bubbling calls during early morning and late afternoon. It can be observed year-round.
Where to spot
Native to New Guinea, inhabiting lowland rainforests, forest edges, and secondary growth throughout the island.
How to spot
Look for its pale head and dark body as it moves through dense undergrowth or perches on low branches. Listen for its distinctive deep, bubbling or hooting calls, which are often the best clue to its presence.
When to spot
Active throughout the day, often heard giving its characteristic bubbling calls during early morning and late afternoon. It can be observed year-round.
This coucal, like others in its genus, exhibits parental care, building its own nest and incubating its eggs. Its unique head coloration makes it quite distinctive among the otherwise largely dark-plumaged coucals of the region.
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