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Red-Breasted Coua

ByJamie Wells

Introduction

The Red-breasted Coua (Coua serriana) is a fascinating bird species endemic to Madagascar, primarily found in the eastern and northeastern parts of the island12.ย This large, stocky, long-tailed terrestrial bird inhabits undisturbed rainforests, from sea level up to elevations of 1,250 meters.

Appearance and Behavior

The Red-breasted Coua is known for its distinctive appearance:

  • Bronze to green-brown upperparts with a coppery wash on the mantle and upper back
  • Dark rufous breast, which gives the bird its name
  • Blue-black flight feathers and long tail
  • Conspicuous area of blue, bare skin around the eye
  • Black bill and dark grey legs and feet

This species is very secretive and shy, usually found alone or in pairs1.ย It spends most of its time on the forest floor and lower canopy levels, rarely flying and preferring to run when alarmed.

Diet and Feeding Habits

The Red-breasted Coua is an omnivore, with a diet consisting of:

  • Insects and small invertebrates
  • Small fruits and seeds
  • Small reptiles and mammals

It forages on the ground by walking and searching for food beneath trees. The species has a unique feeding behavior called “leaf flipping,” where it uses its beak to turn over leaves and find hidden prey.

Reproduction and Nesting

Breeding behavior is not well-documented, but some observations include:

  • Nest building in October/November
  • Bowl-shaped nests made of woven twigs
  • Nests placed in epiphytic ferns or palms, 2-4 meters above ground
  • Clutch size of two white eggs

Both parents are involved in incubation and care of the chicks.

Habitat and Distribution

The Red-breasted Coua is found in:

  • Undisturbed evergreen humid forests
  • Lowland and mid-altitude forests up to 1,200 meters
  • Regions including Marojejy, Masoala, and Anjanaharibe-Sud
  • Areas from the northern Onive River to the Andapa Basin, and west through the Tsaratanana massif to the Sambirano and Daraina regions

Conservation Status

The Red-breasted Coua is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN Red List.ย While it has a restricted range, the species occurs in several protected areas, and its population appears to be stable as long as suitable forest habitat remains in Madagascar.ย However, the bird’s dependence on undisturbed rainforests makes it vulnerable to habitat loss and degradation.

Unique Characteristics

  • Vocalizations include high-pitched, descending whistles and melodious calls
  • Engages in sunbathing behavior in sunny spots on the forest floor
  • Demonstrates cooperative breeding behavior
  • Part of Madagascar’s unique avian biodiversity, showcasing the island’s remarkable natural heritage

The Red-breasted Coua’s existence highlights the importance of preserving Madagascar’s tropical rainforests and their rich ecosystems. As an endemic species, it serves as a testament to the island’s unique evolutionary history and biodiversity.

  • The Red-breasted Coua (Coua serriana) is a fascinating bird species endemic to Madagascar, primarily found in the eastern and northeastern parts of the island12.ย This large, stocky, long-tailed terrestrial bird inhabits undisturbed rainforests, from sea level up to elevations of 1,250 meters.

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