Cambridge Encyclopedia :: Cambridge Encyclopedia Vol. 43

kagu - Description, Classification, Gallery

A ground-dwelling bird (Rhynochetos jubatus) native to New Caledonia; slate grey with short tail, pointed bill, and long erectile crest on head; virtually flightless; inhabits forests; eats worms, insects, and snails; once abundant, but now endangered. (Family: Rhynochetidae.)

iKagu

Conservation status

Endangered (EN)
Scientific classification
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Aves
Order: Gruiformes
Family: Rhynochetidae
Carus, 1868
Genus: Rhynochetos
Species: R. jubatus
Binomial name
Rhynochetos jubatus
Verreaux & DesMurs, 1860

The Kagu or Cagou (Rhynochetos jubatus) is a long-legged greyish bird, the only member of the family Rhynochetidae.

Description

The Kagu is a ground living bird about the size of a chicken found in the forests and shrubland of New Caledonia.

Classification

The Kagu's affinities are uncertain too, although usually the Kagu is considered to be within the Gruiformes.

Gallery

at Rivière Bleue Park

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