Eudynamys scolopaceus
The Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) is an enigmatic and captivating member of the cuckoo family, renowned for its striking sexual dimorphism and distinctive calls. Males are entirely glossy black with piercing crimson eyes, presenting a sleek and somewhat stealthy appearance, typically measuring 39-46 cm in length, with a long tail making up 17-21 cm of that, and weighing 150-300 grams. Females, in stark contrast, display a rich brown plumage heavily spotted and barred with white or buff, ...
Primarily inhabiting woodlands, deciduous forests, and groves, the Asian Koel also readily adapts to human-modified landscapes such as orchards, gardens, and urban parks, thriving from lowlands up to approximately 1800 meters.
Primarily frugivorous, the Asian Koel feeds on a wide variety of berries and fruits, including figs, mulberries, and various drupes. It also consumes insects, caterpillars, and occasionally the eggs or nestlings of host birds.
The Asian Koel is predominantly diurnal, though its presence is often detected by sound rather than sight, as it prefers to remain concealed within dense tree foliage, especially during the day. Its foraging behavior is largely arboreal, involving the careful gleaning of fruits and berries from t...
The Asian Koel commands an extensive geographic distribution across the Oriental biogeographical realm, extending from the Indian subcontinent eastward through Southeast Asia to southern China. Its resident breeding range encompasses India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Myanmar, Thailan...
Least Concern
- The Asian Koel is an obligate brood parasite, meaning it never builds its own nest and relies entirely on other bird species to incubate its eggs and raise its young. - Its primary host species across much of its range are various types of crows, including the ubiquitous House Crow and Jungle C...