Thursday, April 5, 2018

Greater Coucal

Greater Coucal is a very common bird of Tulunadu. They are found in wide range of habitats from cultivations to jungle and urban areas. They look similar to crow with a long tail and brown wings. They are weak fliers and are found clambering about in trees or walking on ground. They feed on insects, small reptiles, small snakes, fruits and seeds. Their breeding season is after the monsoons. They build nest in dense vegetation and lay 2-4 eggs. They sunbathe in the mornings singly or in pairs on the top of vegetation with their wings spread out. 
Call: low coop-coop-coop..or rattling lotok lotok..or harsh sheeaaw
The bird is associated with many superstitions and beliefs. The deep calls are associated with spirits and omens.The flesh was once eaten as a folk cure for tuberculosis and pulmonary ailments.
Scientific Name: Centropus sinensis (Least Concern)

Sunbathing
Location: Saralabettu, Manipal. Date: 1.4.18

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