Greater Coucal

Sylvester Alphonso

This bird is commonly known as the crow pheasant, it is the large member of the cuckoo family characterised by its glossy black plumage and rusty brown wings. A key identifier is its bright ruby eye set against the dark feathers of its head, these birds have a deep resistance call as poop poop poop sound. In traditional folklore and regional beliefs across india seeing a greater coucal locally known as Bhardwaj bird. It is widely considered a very good omen and sign of good luck. Many rural and traditional communities view its copper wings and striking red eyes as symbols of positivity which has historically helped protect the bird from harm.