Greater Coucal

Greater Coucal

The Greater Coucal is better described by its popular name in Kannada, Kembootha. The word Kembootha  literally means Red Devil. This is a fitting name because the bird has a red-coloured eyes and wings. Slightly bigger than a common crow, this bird is well known for its fights with snakes.Usually it feeds off insects, smaller vertebrates and small snakes.

Very commonly seen in rural Malnad, I have not seen these in the Shimoga city. I usually see this almost every day in Matthur, near Tunga channels, and our garden. Surprisingly for its looks, it is a very quick bird and very shy. It is not uncommon to see these birds hopping on the ground, low bushes, and small trees. With its long tail and rather heavey body, it is an awkward flier.