Population
Estimated population is 250 - 999 (2010) and stable.
Status VU
Habitat destruction and degradation through shrub clearance for charcoal and grazing by goats is the main threat.
For more information see BirdLife International Species Factsheet.
Voice
Song is a loud 'tyu-tee', second note louder and more whistled.
Red-shouldered Vanga (Calicalicus rufocarpalis) [XC91704]
by Hans Matheve from La Table, E of Toliara, Toliara Prov., Madagascar (song)
Red-shouldered Vanga (Calicalicus rufocarpalis) [XC163093]
by Patrik \u00c5berg from La Table National Park, Tulear, Madagascar (song)
Subspecies
No subspecies.
Recent molecular-genetic analysis indicates that genus may be closest to Vanga, Cyanolanius, Schetba and Euryceros. Howeve, cladistic analysis based on morphological characters suggests that it may not belong in the present family, but could be closer to drongos (Dicruridae) and monarch-flycatchers (Monarchidae).
Similar Species
From Madagascar Blue Vanga (Cyanolanius madagascarinus) by yellow iris, shorter wings, longer tail, longer bill. Female from newtonias Newtonia by red shoulders and tail, thicker bill, pale eye-ring.
References
See References.