The Senegal coucal, Centropus senegalensis, is a medium-sized bird within the cuckoo order, Cuculiformes. It boasts a striking appearance with a black crown, nape, upper parts, bill, legs, and elongated tail. The eyes of this species are a captivating red, while the wings present a rich chestnut hue. The underparts are a creamy white, accented with blackish barring on the flanks.
When identifying the Senegal coucal, look for its black upper body and tail, contrasting with chestnut wings and creamy underparts. The red eyes are a distinctive feature, as is the barring on the flanks. Juveniles may appear browner with more pronounced barring and streaking.
This bird favors grassy environments interspersed with trees, such as bushlands and savannahs, providing it with ample cover and foraging opportunities.
The Senegal coucal's range spans across central and southern Africa, south of the Sahara Desert. It can be found from Senegal and Gambia in the west, across to Ethiopia and Kenya in the east, and reaching down to Angola and Congo in the south. A separate population resides in southern Africa, particularly around Zambia, Zimbabwe, and northern Botswana.
