Rufous-vented Ground-Cuckoo

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The Rufous-vented Ground-Cuckoo is a large, terrestrial cuckoo of Central and South American rainforests, notable for its secretive habits and striking appearance. It frequently associates with army ant swarms to forage on flushed prey.

Where to spot

Inhabits humid lowland rainforests and mature secondary forests across a wide range, from Nicaragua south through Central America to northern Bolivia and western Brazil.

How to spot

Extremely difficult to spot due to its shyness and preference for dense undergrowth. The best chance of observation is by locating army ant swarms and patiently watching the forest floor nearby. Listen for its deep, hooting calls, which are sometimes the only indication of its presence.

When to spot

Year-round resident. Most active during the day, especially when following ant swarms, though it remains largely unseen due to its shy nature and dense habitat.

Where to spot

Inhabits humid lowland rainforests and mature secondary forests across a wide range, from Nicaragua south through Central America to northern Bolivia and western Brazil.

How to spot

When to spot

Year-round resident. Most active during the day, especially when following ant swarms, though it remains largely unseen due to its shy nature and dense habitat.

Credits: Wikimedia Commons

This ground-cuckoo is a 'professional' army ant follower, using its powerful legs and keen eyesight to quickly catch insects, spiders, and other small prey that are flushed out by the moving columns of army ants on the forest floor.

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