Running coua

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Running coua
Scientific classification Edit this classification
Domain: Eukaryota
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Cuculiformes
Family: Cuculidae
Genus: Coua
Species:
C. cursor
Binomial name
Coua cursor

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

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[edit]

  1. ^ 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.
  2. ^ 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.