Greater Coucal
NameGreater Coucal
Common NameGreater Coucal
Scientific NameCentropus sinensis
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)50
Weight (g)250
Plumage DetailsThe body, head, and tail are glossy black, contrasting sharply with the rich chestnut-brown wings. It has distinctive bright red eyes and a stout, dark bill.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its deep, resonant 'coop-coop-coop' call, which is often repeated and carries over long distances.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including countries like India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and southern China.
Identifying Featureslarge size, glossy black body, chestnut wings, bright red eyes, long tail, terrestrial habits, deep 'coop-coop' call
Description
A large, dark, terrestrial cuckoo with striking chestnut wings and a long tail. It typically forages on the ground for insects and small vertebrates, often seen walking rather than flying.
