Black Coucal

The black coucal (Centropus grillii) is a striking species of cuckoo, notable for its sexual dimorphism in size. The male measures approximately 30 cm (12 inches) in length, while the female is slightly larger at 34 cm (13 inches). During the breeding season, both sexes exhibit a glossy black plumage on the head, body, and tail, with the exception of some buff barring on the rump. The wings are a rich rufous color. Outside of the breeding season, their upper parts transition to a dark brown with rufous barring. Their eyes are a deep brown, complementing their black beak and legs. The juveniles display a rufous plumage interspersed with a variety of dark and light bars and streaks.

Identification Tips

When identifying the black coucal, look for the distinctive black and rufous plumage in adults, particularly during the breeding season. The size difference between males and females can also be a helpful clue. Juveniles can be recognized by their rufous coloration and the pattern of barring and streaking.

Habitat

The black coucal is found in a variety of habitats including marshes, savannahs, grasslands, bracken, undergrowth, and clearings within woodlands. It may also be seen in reeds and papyrus beds. This bird typically resides at elevations below 1,500 meters (5,000 feet), but can occasionally be found up to 2,000 meters (6,600 feet).

Distribution

This species boasts a wide distribution across Africa, south of the Sahara. Countries where the black coucal can be found include Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Ivory Coast, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Mali, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, Senegal, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. It is a resident species in some areas, while in others it may be migratory.

Behaviour

Intriguingly, the black coucal exhibits a reversal of typical avian sex roles. The males are responsible for nest tending, while the females are polyandrous and maintain territories. Research into their hormonal systems has revealed that progesterone plays a key role in modulating the females' aggressive behavior.

Breeding

The black coucal's breeding behavior is characterized by the male's involvement in nest care and the female's polyandrous nature. This role reversal is a fascinating aspect of their ecology.

Conservation Status

Despite being an uncommon bird, the black coucal has a very extensive range and is not currently facing any significant threats. The population is believed to be stable, and as such, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified it as "Least Concern."