Asian Koel

Asian Koel

Asian Koel (Eudynamys scolopaceus) is a member of the cuckoo order of birds, the Cuculiformes. It is found in the Indian Subcontinent, China, and Southeast Asia. It is a brood parasite, which means it lays its eggs in the nests of other birds, particularly crows and sparrows, who then raise the koel's offspring as their own. The Asian Koel is notable for its distinctive, loud call, which is often heard in urban areas where it is common.

Description

The Asian Koel is a large, long-tailed bird, measuring 39 to 46 cm in length. Males are glossy black with a striking green or blue sheen, while females are brownish or spotted with white and buff. Both sexes have a strong bill and red eyes. The bird's song, particularly that of the male, is a familiar sound in its range; the male's song is a repeated 'koo-Ooo', and the female's is a shrill 'kik-kik-kik'.

Habitat and Distribution

The Asian Koel is widespread throughout its range, which extends from the Indian Subcontinent, through parts of Southeast Asia, to China. It inhabits a variety of environments including open woodland, forests, mangroves, and urban areas, showing a particular fondness for areas inhabited by humans, where it can easily find food and nesting sites.

Behaviour

Feeding

Asian Koels are mainly frugivorous, feeding on a variety of wild and cultivated fruits. They also consume insects, especially during the breeding season, to gain the additional protein needed for egg production.

Breeding

As brood parasites, Asian Koels do not build their own nests. Instead, females lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, particularly those of crows and sparrows. The host birds then raise the koel chicks, often at the expense of their own offspring. Koel eggs mimic the appearance of the host's eggs, which helps reduce the chance of the host bird detecting the intruder.

Conservation Status

The Asian Koel is classified as Least Concern by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). It is common and widespread throughout its range, and there are no immediate threats to its population.

Cultural Significance

In many parts of its range, the Asian Koel is associated with folklore and tradition. Its call is often considered a harbinger of the monsoon rains and is welcomed as a sign of impending fertility and prosperity.