Sula Scrubfowl
Megapodius bernsteinii
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About
A medium-sized megapode (~845 g) of family Megapodiidae, endemic to the Sula Islands of eastern Indonesia. Inhabits tropical forests and uses solar or geothermal heat to incubate eggs in communal mounds or buried in warm substrates. Feeds on seeds and invertebrates. Vulnerable due to its restricted island range, forest clearance, and collection of eggs for food.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 37.0 cm | 14.6 in |
| Weight | 844.5 g | 29.79 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Dark brownish-grey above; underparts grey, paler on belly; bare reddish facial skin around eye; crest small and brown. Closely resembles Philippine Scrubfowl but slightly darker above.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Endemic to the Sula Islands of Indonesia. Found in lowland forest on the island group.
Diet & Feeding
Forages in Sula Island forests for fallen fruits, seeds, and invertebrates uncovered by raking leaf litter with powerful feet.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: M. Incubation: 60 days.
Sound
Song
Emits a loud, raucous cackling wail and guttural clucking notes. Calls are typical Megapodius; wailing cackle carries through Sulawesi island forest and coastal scrub.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes (Gamebirds) |
| Family | Megapodiidae (Megapodes) |
| Genus | Megapodius |
| Species | Megapodius bernsteinii |
Distribution
Sula Scrubfowl has been recorded in 1 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Sula Scrubfowl eat?
Where does the Sula Scrubfowl live?
Is the Sula Scrubfowl endangered?
How does the Sula Scrubfowl nest?
What does the Sula Scrubfowl sound like?
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What order and family does the Sula Scrubfowl belong to?
Similar Birds
Other species in the Megapodiidae family