The Greater Coucal செம்போத்து/செண்பகப் பறவை

Common name: The Greater Coucal 

Tamil Name: செம்போத்து/செண்பகப் பறவை

Scientific name: Centropus sinensis

Photo shot at: Backyard of Cauvery men’s hostel

Photo credit: Manojkumar.K

The Greater Coucal or Crow Pheasant (Centropus sinensis) is a large non-parasitic member of the cuckoo order of birds, the Cuculiformes. A widespread resident in Asia, from India, east to south China, Nepal and Indonesia, it is divided into several subspecies, some being treated as full species. They are large, crow-like with a long tail and coppery brown wings and found in wide range of habitats from jungle to cultivation and urban gardens. They are weak fliers, and are often seen clambering about in vegetation or walking on the ground as they forage for insects, eggs and nestlings of other birds. They have a familiar deep resonant call which is associated with omens in many parts of its range.