Species · GBIF taxon 2496347
Asian Koel
Eudynamys scolopaceusAlso known as Common Koel, Indian Koel
Asian koels are large, long-tailed cuckoos famous for the loud, rising call of the males during the breeding season. Males sport a glossy bluish-black plumage with striking crimson eyes, while females are heavily spotted and barred in brown and white. Unlike most cuckoos, adults feed almost exclusively on fruit, though they rely on insect-eating hosts like crows to raise their young.
VocalBrood ParasiteFrugivorous
- diet
- Frugivorous, feeding primarily on wild figs, berries, and drupes, supplemented by insects
- family
- Cuculidae
- threats
- Pesticide use reducing host bird populations and habitat loss from extreme urbanization
- life Span
- 12 to 15 years
LC
Capable of delivering a sharp peck if cornered or handled; observe from a respectful distance.
- Listen for calls: Locate them by listening for the male's loud, repetitive, rising 'ko-el' call, especially at dawn.
- Scan fruit trees: Look for them in fruiting canopy trees, where they often feed quietly alongside other birds.
- Watch crow nests: Observe nesting crows to spot female koels sneaking in to lay eggs.