Asian Koel

Asian Koel

Scientific Name: Eudynamys scolopaceus

Malay Name: Tahu Asia

Chinese Name: 噪鹃

Range: Found from the Indian subcontinent to southern China, Southeast Asia with some northern populations wintering south to Southeast Asia

Taxonomy: Polytypic. Subspecies are: scolopaceus, chinensis, harterti, malayanus, mindanensis.

Local Subspecies: malayanus

Size: 40-44 cm

Identification: Male resembles crow but has glossy blue-black overall plumage, stout greenish bill and red eyes. Female resembles male but has dark brownish overall plumage with whitish spots on upperparts and streaks/barrings on underparts.

Habitat: Forest edge, wooded areas, mangroves, parks and gardens.

Behaviour/Ecology: A known brood parasite of Large-billed Crow and House Crow.

Local Status: Very common resident

Conservation Status: Least Concern (BirdLife International 2016)

Location: Any suitable habitat like Singapore Botanic Gardens, Pasir Ris Park, Lorong Halus, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Kranji Marsh, Jurong Eco Garden, etc.

References:

BirdLife International. (2016). Eudynamys scolopaceus. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T22684049A93012559.en. Accessed on 1 January 2023

Jeyarajasingam, A., & Pearson, A. (2012). A Field Guide to the Birds of Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore. Oxford University Press.

Robson, C. (2014). Field guide to the birds of South-East Asia (Second Edition). Bloomsbury Publishing, London.

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