A large and striking bird commonly found across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. This bird is easily recognizable due to its impressive size and unique coloration. The greater coucal has a glossy black body, deep chestnut wings, and a long, broad tail. Its eyes are bright red, which stand out against its dark feathers, giving it a slightly mysterious and intense look.
One of the most interesting things about the greater coucal is its behavior. Unlike many other birds, it spends much time on the ground, foraging in thick underbrush and grassy areas. It is a strong and purposeful walker, using its long legs to move through dense vegetation as it hunts for food. The greater coucal is an omnivore, meaning it eats a wide variety of things, including insects, small mammals, reptiles, snails, and even the eggs and chicks of other birds. It is also known to eat fruits and seeds, making it a versatile feeder.
The greater coucal is not a strong flier and tends to fly in short bursts, often moving from one clump of bushes to another. Its flight is slow and somewhat clumsy, with its wings making a noticeable flapping sound as it moves through the air. However, it is much more comfortable on the ground or perched in low trees and shrubs, where it can be seen moving about in search of food.
One of the most distinctive features of the greater coucal is its deep, resonant call, which is often described as a series of “whoop” or “coop-coop-coop” sounds. This call is usually heard at dawn and dusk and can carry long distances. The call is often associated with rain, and in many cultures, the greater coucal is considered a harbinger of rain, sometimes earning it the nickname “rain crow.” Its calls are also used to communicate with other coucals and establish territory.
Distribution
Bangladesh
Bhutan
Brunei
Cambodia
China
India
Indonesia
Laos
Malaysia
Myanmar
Nepal
Pakistan
Philippines
Singapore
Sri Lanka
Thailand
VietnamAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
