Melanesian Scrubfowl
Megapodius eremita
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<birdfyi-bird slug="megapodius-eremita"></birdfyi-bird>About
A medium-sized megapode (~660 g) of family Megapodiidae, distributed across the Bismarck Archipelago and Solomon Islands. Inhabits tropical forests from sea level to moderate elevations, constructing mound nests from vegetation and soil. Feeds on seeds, fallen fruits, and invertebrates. Least Concern; commonly hunted for eggs and meat but maintains stable populations across islands.
Physical Description
| Measurement | Value | Imperial |
|---|---|---|
| Wingspan | 42.6 cm | 16.8 in |
| Weight | 657.5 g | 23.19 oz |
Identification
Plumage
Brownish-grey throughout; bare bright red facial skin contrasts with greyish plumage; small pale crest on forehead; underparts pale grey. Legs large and yellowish; tail short and rounded.
Habitat & Range
Geographic Range
Resident across Melanesia including the Bismarck Archipelago, Solomon Islands, and coastal New Guinea. Found in lowland and hill forest.
Diet & Feeding
Omnivorous; eats fallen fruits, seeds, and invertebrates in Melanesian island forests. Uses powerful legs to scratch for food.
Conservation Status
Behavior & Breeding
Nesting
Nest type: BU,M. Incubation: 42-70 days.
Clutch Size
4-11
Sound
Song
Emits a loud, raucous cackling wail and guttural territorial notes. The repeating cackle echoes through Melanesian island forests from the Solomons to Bismarcks.
Taxonomy
| Kingdom | Animalia |
| Phylum | Chordata |
| Class | Aves |
| Order | Galliformes (Gamebirds) |
| Family | Megapodiidae (Megapodes) |
| Genus | Megapodius |
| Species | Megapodius eremita |
Distribution
Melanesian Scrubfowl has been recorded in 1 countries.
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External Databases
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Melanesian Scrubfowl eat?
Where does the Melanesian Scrubfowl live?
Is the Melanesian Scrubfowl endangered?
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Similar Birds
Other species in the Megapodiidae family