The crested coua (Coua cristata) is a common medium sized bird member of the cuckoo family. It is endemic to Madagascar, mainly found in the coastal regions of the island. It is distinguished mainly by its greenish-gray back, its prominent gray head crest, rufous-colored breast, white abdomen and bright turquoise and blue patches of bare skin around the eyes, eyes are brown. Its long tail is purplish-blue with white tips and its bill and beak are black. Average length of an adult bird is 30-44 cm. Males and females are similar physically. The crested coua is a weak flyer, so it will often be observed hopping from branch to branch in high canopies.