About Macropygia phasianella (Temminck, 1821)
The brown cuckoo-dove, scientifically named Macropygia phasianella (Temminck, 1821), measures 40 to 43 centimetres, or 16 to 17 inches, in total length. Its plumage is a rich rusty-brown, while its short wings, long tail, and back are a darker shade. Male brown cuckoo-doves typically have subtle rose-green colouring on their nape and neck. The species produces a very loud call described as "whoop-a whoop", with slight call differences between different subspecies. Brown cuckoo-doves live in rainforests, woodlands, scrublands, and regrowing rainforest areas. They are most often observed in pairs or small groups. Their diet is made up of berries from both native plants and introduced weed species. Brown cuckoo-doves may be nomadic, moving to follow available food supplies. They typically fly short distances low to the ground, and their flight is very strong. Breeding for this species takes place in spring and summer. Females build a flat platform nest from sticks and vines, placed either in the fork of a tree or on top of a low tree. A single creamy white egg is laid per clutch.
