African Emerald Cuckoo vs Crested Coua
Chrysococcyx cupreus compared with Coua cristata
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Attribute | African Emerald Cuckoo | Crested Coua |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Chrysococcyx cupreus | Coua cristata |
| Order | Cuculiformes | Cuculiformes |
| Family | Cuculidae | Cuculidae |
| Conservation Status | Least Concern | Least Concern |
| Length | — | — |
| Wingspan | 21.1 cm (8.3 in) | 27.2 cm (10.7 in) |
| Weight | 38.0 g (1.34 oz) | 104.0 g (3.67 oz) |
| Diet | -- | -- |
| Clutch Size | -- | 2 |
| Population Trend | — | — |
Habitat Comparison
Song & Call Comparison
African Emerald Cuckoo
Deep, hollow resonant booming call; powerful low notes carrying far through dense tropical forest. Vocalization pattern typical of this species in its native habitat.
Crested Coua
Loud, far-carrying melodic call with resonant quality; clear rich notes audible through dense humid forest.
Conservation Status
African Emerald Cuckoo
Crested Coua
About These Birds
African Emerald Cuckoo
African Emerald Cuckoo (Chrysococcyx cupreus) — 20–22 cm. Male: dazzling emerald green above and on breast; yellow belly; red bill. Female: bronze-green above; rufous-barred below. Inhabits primary forest and dense secondary growth across West and Central Africa. Brood parasite targeting sunbirds and other small passerines. Insectivore.
Crested Coua
Crested Coua (Coua cristata) — 42–44 cm. Grey-brown above; whitish below with vinous breast; prominent erect crest; vivid bare blue orbital patch. Common in western and southern Madagascar in dry deciduous forest, scrub, and spiny thickets. Non-parasitic; builds a small open nest. Omnivore; eats insects, chameleons, fruits, and seeds.