Running coua
| Running coua | |
|---|---|
| |
Scientific classification 
| |
| Kingdom: | Animalia |
| Phylum: | Chordata |
| Class: | Aves |
| Order: | Cuculiformes |
| Family: | Cuculidae |
| Genus: | Coua |
| Species: | C. cursor
|
| Binomial name | |
| Coua cursor Grandidier, 1867
| |
The running coua (Coua cursor) is a species of cuckoo in the family Cuculidae. It is endemic to Madagascar.
Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical dry forests.
Description[]
Adult running coau are approximately 34–40 cm in length.[2] Adults appear grey-green above, with a blue and pink face outlined in black and dark blue skin around the eye.[2] The back is bright pink, outlined by black feathers.[2] The running coau's breast is purplish.[2] Juveniles have similar coloration, although duller, and without black on the face.[2]
Distribution and habitat[]
The running coau is endemic to Madagascar, and is found to the south and south-west of the island.[2] Its typical habitat is sub-arid thorn scrub, spiny desert, dry woodlands, and low forest bush.[2] The running coau is not globally threatened.[2]
Behavior and ecology[]
The running coau is a terrestrial bird, typically found alone or in a pair.[2] It walks and hops on the ground, running when threatened.[2] Its diet consists of beetles, ants, spiders, and plants.[2]
The running coau breeds during the rainy season, and lays its eggs during October.[2] It nests in a bush about 2 meters above the ground, building it's nest of twigs and bark, lined with leaf stalks.[2]
References[]
- ^ BirdLife International (2018). "Coua cursor". IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. 2018: e.T22684164A130094351. doi:10.2305/IUCN.UK.2018-2.RLTS.T22684164A130094351.en. Retrieved 11 November 2021.
- ^ a b c d e f g h i j k l m Johannes Erritzøe, Clive F. Mann, Frederik Brammer, & Richard A. Fuller. (2012). Cuckoos of the World. Helm. Page 223.
- IUCN Red List least concern species
- Coua
- Birds described in 1867
- Taxa named by Alfred Grandidier
- Cuculiformes stubs