Lesser Coucal
NameLesser Coucal
Common NameLesser Coucal
Scientific NameCentropus bengalensis
FamilyCuculidae
Wingspan (cm)42
Length (cm)35
Weight (g)150
Plumage DetailsAdults display a glossy black plumage on the head, neck, and underparts, with striking rufous-chestnut wings. The long tail is black. Non-breeding birds may show streaky brown upperparts and paler underparts.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a distinctive series of deep, resonant 'hoop-hoop-hoop' calls that often accelerate and descend in pitch. It also produces various chuckles, growls, and hisses.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range in South and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Myanmar, Thailand, Indochina, southern China, and parts of Indonesia and the Philippines.
Identifying Featuresglossy black head and body, bright rufous wings, long black tail, heavy, curved pale bill, often seen flying low over vegetation
Description
The Lesser Coucal is a medium-sized cuckoo species characterized by its glossy black head and body, contrasting sharply with its bright rufous wings. It is often observed flying low over dense vegetation or moving stealthily through undergrowth, primarily foraging for insects and small vertebrates.
