Dusky Megapode

Overview

The dusky megapode (Megapodius freycinet), also known as the dusky scrubfowl or common megapode, is a medium-sized, blackish terrestrial bird. It is evaluated as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

Identification

• Approximately 41 cm (16 in) in length with a blackish body and a short pointed crest.
• Features bare red facial skin, brown irises, and dark legs.
• Possesses a dark brown and yellow bill, with males and females appearing similar.

Habitat

This species inhabits forests and swamps, including mangroves, in the Maluku and Raja Ampat Islands of Indonesia. It is described as fairly common throughout a large part of its range.

Did you know?

Like other megapodes, this species lays its eggs in mounds made from earth mixed with leaves, sand, gravel, and sticks, which can reach 11 m (36 ft) in diameter and stand nearly 5 m (16 ft) tall.