Photo Of The Month

February 2025

This is a featured photo of the month. I will try and update this monthly with a favorite photo.

  • Common Name: Greater Coucal
  • Scientific Name: Centropus sinensis
  • Date Taken: April 26, 2019
  • Location: Udon Thani, Thailand
  • Photographer: Howard Cunningham

  • The largest member of the cuckoo family (Cuculidae),
    the Greater Coucal is widely distributed across the
    Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of
    southern China. It thrives in diverse habitats,
    including grasslands, forests, farmlands, mangroves,
    and even urban parks. It is omnivorous, feeding on
    insects, small reptiles, frogs, eggs, nestlings,
    fruits, and seeds. They are weak fliers, and are
    often seen foraging in undergrowth or open ground.
    It is known for its deep, resonant, and repetitive
    calls, typically described as "coop-coop-coop."
    These calls are often heard during the early morning
    and evening. In many parts of India, the Greater
    Coucal is considered a bird of good omen. Its calls
    are often interpreted as signs of impending rain
    or good luck.