Jharkhand – Asian Koel
Common Name: Asian Koel
Local Name: Koel (Hindi), Kokila (Sanskrit)
Scientific Name: Eudynamys scolopaceus
Description: Large and long-tailed, omnivorous cuckoo with distinct sexual dimorphism is the Asian Koel. The females have a dark-brown body covered in white spots, while the males have a shimmering metallic black body. On the other hand, both sexes have bright red eyes and robust, greenish bills.
Distribution and Behavior: Found in light woodlands, near cultivations, tree groves, mango orchards, etc., the Asian Koel is primarily a resident breeder. The Indian Subcontinent, China, and Southeast Asia are home to the bird. Similar to other cuckoo family members, Asian Koel is a brood parasite, meaning that its females lay their eggs in the nests of other birds, including crows, jungle babblers, mynas, and others. The bird primarily feeds on various insects, caterpillars, snails, bugs, eggs of small birds, fruits, and berries.