The Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) Wildlife of the Month (WOM) for January 2025 is the Rough-Crested Malkoha, scientifically known as Dasylophus superciliosus (Dumont, 1823) of the family Cuculidae. This species of cuckoo is also known as the Red-Crested Malkoha, endemic to Luzon, Philippines. This bird is easily identified by its glossy black plumage, a distinctive short red eyebrow crest, and white-tipped tails. There are two recognized subspecies of Rough-Crested Malkoha: Dasylophus superciliosus superciliosus found in Southern Luzon; and Dasylophus superciliosus cagayanensis found in Northern Luzon, specifically in Cagayan Province.
The Rough-Crested Malkoha thrives in tropical moist lowland forest ranging from 100m to 800m above sea level. Reproduction in this species is oviparous. It is usually seen in the understory of trees but will sometimes descend to the ground to grab a worm or other food like insects, invertebrates, and lizards.
The common major threats of this species includes deforestation, environmental pollution, and poaching.
By: JBBalatibat, AALimpiada, MMCaña 2025