Greater Coucal

Greater Coucal

Scientific Name: Centropus sinensis

Malay Name: Bubut Besar Asia

Chinese Name: 褐翅鸦鹃

Range: Found from the Indian subcontinent to southern China and Southeast Asia

Taxonomy: Polytypic. Subspecies are: sinensis, parroti, intermedius, bubutus, anonymus, kangeangensis.

Local Subspecies: bubutus

Size: 48-52 cm

Identification: Adult is distinctive looking with glossy purplish blue-black plumage and contrasting chestnut back and wings. Juvenile resembles adult but has duller overall plumage with rufous-chestnut streaks on body and blackish bars on wings.

Similar looking species: Lesser Coucal

Habitat: Forest, forest edge, secondary growth, mangroves, parks and gardens.

Behaviour/Ecology:

Local Status: Common resident

Conservation Status: Least Concern (BirdLife International 2016)

Location: Central Catchment Forest, Sungei Buloh Wetland Reserve, Neo Tiew Lane 2, Satay by the Bay, Pasir Ris Park and any suitable habitat.

References:

BirdLife International. (2016). Centropus sinensis. The IUCN Red List of Threatened Species 2016. https://dx.doi.org/10.2305/IUCN.UK.2016-3.RLTS.T22684229A93020052.en. Accessed on 1 January 2023

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

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