great coucal

The great coucal, also known as the common coucal or crow pheasant, is a species of bird belonging to the cuckoo family (Cuculidae). It is found in regions spanning from India to Southeast Asia. These birds are medium to large in size, typically measuring between 48 to 56 cm (19 to 22 inches) in length. They have a distinctive appearance with a black body contrasted by a brown mantle and wings.1

Coucals are characterized by their loose plumage, stout, down-curved bills, short wings, and long, graduated tails. They are not strong fliers and primarily feed on large insects, though they are also capable of catching small rodents and reptiles. They build domed nests made of grass, usually on the ground or in low bushes, and lay three to five eggs. The great coucal is one of about 27 species within the genus Centropus.12