© Lisa & Li Li
© JJ Harrison
© Lisa & Li Li
© Boas Emmanuel

Sumatran Ground-Cuckoo Carpococcyx viridis

Sign in to see your badges

Identification

POWERED BY MERLIN

Incredibly elusive and rare, this is a highly sought-after ground-dweller. Found only in primary hill forest (300-1400 meters) in western Sumatra. Unmistakable if seen well; note long broad tail, burly chest, dark head, long legs, finely barred breast, and brightly-colored blue-and-pink bare facial skin. Like many other terrestrial birds, tends to run away when spooked. Very difficult to see, and best detected by its mournful, high-pitched, and slightly hollow whistled song: “gwheuw-oh-eewo’eh!” Also gives a harsh, buzzy call that sounds like someone blowing their nose.

POWERED BY MERLIN