greater coucal

The Greater Coucal (Centropus sinensis), also widely known as the Crow Pheasant, is a large, fascinating member of the cuckoo order, Cuculiformes. Unlike many of its relatives, this species is non-parasitic, meaning it builds its own nests and raises its own young. It is a common and widespread resident across the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia.

Standing at approximately 48 cm in length, the Greater Coucal is a large bird with a distinct, crow-like silhouette. It features a glossy black body, a long and heavy tail, and striking coppery brown wings. Its eyes are typically a bold red, and it possesses strong legs suited for walking and clambering through dense undergrowth.

The Greater Coucal is highly adaptable and thrives in a diverse range of environments. Its primary habitats include:

• Grasslands and second-growth forests
• Forest edges and cultivated areas
• Mangroves and marshes
• Reed beds, scrubs, and urban gardens

This bird is an opportunistic and versatile feeder. The Greater Coucal's diet consists of:

• Large insects and caterpillars
• Small vertebrates such as young mice, lizards, and even Saw-scaled vipers
• Snails (a primary food source in certain regions)
• Birds' eggs and nestlings
• Fruits and seeds, including the toxic Yellow Oleander

The breeding season typically occurs between June and September, often following the monsoon. Greater Coucals are monogamous, and their courtship involves the male offering food gifts to the female. The nest is a deep, domed cup built by both parents, usually hidden in dense vegetation such as bamboo or creepers. They typically lay a clutch of 3 to 5 chalky white eggs, which hatch after an incubation period of 15 to 16 days.

Greater Coucals are known to be weak fliers, preferring to clamber through vegetation or walk on the ground while foraging. They are frequently seen sunbathing in the morning with their wings spread. Their vocalizations are iconic, consisting of a deep, resonant coop-coop-coop call that is often associated with local omens and folklore.

As a widespread resident with a broad range of habitats, the Greater Coucal is currently considered a species of Least Concern. However, they are sometimes viewed as pests in oil palm plantations due to their habit of eating the fleshy fruit pulp.

1. Unlike most cuckoos, the Greater Coucal is not a brood parasite and raises its own chicks.
2. They have been observed eating toxic fruits that are harmful to many other animals.
3. The female's call is typically lower in pitch than the male's during their vocal duets.
4. Their nests can be found as high as 6 meters above the ground in dense foliage.
5. They are known to be territorial, with nesting pairs defending areas up to 7.2 hectares.

To spot a Greater Coucal, look for them during the early morning or late afternoon when they are most active. Listen for their booming, low-pitched calls to locate them in dense scrub or reed beds. Because they are shy fliers, you are more likely to see them walking on the ground or sunning themselves on top of bushes after a rain shower.

The Greater Coucal is a unique and hardy bird that bridges the gap between the wild jungle and urban gardens. With its striking coppery wings and deep, haunting calls, it remains one of the most recognizable and culturally significant birds across its Asian range.