The maleo is a large megapode and the sole member of the monotypic genus Macrocephalon. It is endemic to Indonesia, specifically inhabiting Sulawesi and the nearby smaller island of Buton.
This bird species resides in tropical lowland and hill forests. For incubation purposes, it nests in specific environments such as beaches, open sandy areas, or volcanic soils that are heated by either geothermal energy or direct sunlight.