Adult © Frédéric PELSY
Chick © Simon Mitchell
Display © Andrew Spencer
Adult © Nigel Voaden

Maleo Macrocephalon maleo

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Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

A massive black-and-white megapode with a rose-pink breast and a diagnostic prominent knob on the nape. Found in lowland and hill forest, in areas near beaches or areas with volcanic sands in which they lay their eggs. Immatures show a blacker head with a white throat and a tufted crest. Occurs in pairs that forage on the ground and roost in trees by night. Often best seen at known egg-laying sites, either during laying sessions, or roosting in trees nearby. Generally silent, but occasionally gives a loud, bubbling “waow.”

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