Goliath Coucal
Centropus goliath
An unmistakable massive black cuckoo with creamy-white wing patches that are visible both perched and in flight. Rare pale forms also occur that have pale heads and variable buff areas on their bodies. Juveniles similar to typical dark adults, but show chestnut on the underparts. The species is found in pairs or small groups within dense tangles in the understory of forest and in nearby thick undergrowth. Often detected by call, a series of deep, very low-pitched “boop” notes, descending toward the end. Also gives a very different, harsh, scraping “chow” call in alarm.
Identification
The goliath coucal (Centropus goliath) is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is found in the northern Maluku Islands.
Taxonomy
Genus: Centropus; Family: Cuculidae; Order: Cuculiformes.
- Scientific name
- Centropus goliath
- Authority
- Bonaparte, 1850
- Order
- Cuculiformes
- Family
- Cuculidae
- Genus
- Centropus
Range and habitat
- Migration
- Resident species
Behavior
Migration pattern: Resident species.
Conservation
Population trend: stable.
- Population trend
- stable
Photos
Distribution
Bird Calls
Other Birds
Mountain Chiffchaff
Phylloscopus sindianus
Very similar to Common Chiffchaff, but distinctly darker brown, and lacks any green or yellow tones including uppertail coverts and fringes to wing feathers. Note the brownish wash to underparts, especially the flanks, the rather contrasting whitish throat, and white eyebrow. Bill and legs distinctly black. Short primary projection. Breeds in forested mountains, valleys, and foothills, including low-stature mixed forest; winters in lower elevation scrub, including acacia and tamarisks. Call similar to Siberian Chiffchaff: a high-pitched, slightly downslurred "Piiu." Song similar to Common Chiffchaff but faster and less “organized.”
Lewin's Rail
Lewinia pectoralis
Cryptic rail with long, decurved bill. Adult has reddish-brown crown and nape, gray breast, and black-and-white barred belly. Darker juvenile very dull in comparison and lacks the reddish-brown crown. Buff-banded Rail has a chunkier bill and prominent pale eyebrow. This species is typically difficult to observe as it tends to hide in reed beds, where heard far more often than seen. Calls include a loud "kek-kek-kek-kek" as well as strange grunts and growls.
Black Wood-Pigeon
Columba janthina
The largest pigeon in the region, with dark purplish plumage except for metallic green around the neck. Generally uncommon endemic of islands off Japan, and to a lesser extent South Korea and Taiwan. Occurs in mature broadleaf forests, where it forages on the ground or in canopy. Also favors pines, especially in the Ryukyu Islands. Rustles about loudly when feeding. Deep call and slow moaning song may recall the everyday Rock Pigeon.
Start Your Bird Watching Journey
Identify a bird outdoors and keep the field guide close for your next observation.