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.