Crested couas are found only in Madagascar where they are widespread in savanna, forest, grassland and shrubland habitats. Bushy heads and bright, colorful eyes give this bird a striking look.
The life of a crested coua
Crested couas average about one to one-and-a-half feet in length. They live up to 15 years in human care.
Crested couas breed between mid-September and mid-March. Males and females build nests together high in trees and share parenting duties. Females typically lay two eggs that hatch within two weeks. Chicks have a “bullseye” marking inside their mouths to aid parents when feeding.
Crested couas are omnivores that eat large insects, small reptiles, seeds and fruits. They are weak flyers and navigate the forest by hopping and gliding from tree to tree. When foraging food from trees, they begin at the base and work their way up to the treetop.
Crested couas do not form large flocks. Their main predators are larger birds of prey like hawks and eagles. Humans also hunt crested coua for meat.
Crested couas at the zoo
Located in the Vollum Aviary and Treetops section of the Africa area.
