THE greater coucal (Centropus sinensis), found in many places in Shenzhen, is a large bird measuring around 60 centimeters long.

It boasts a shiny dark blue plumage with a chestnut-brown wingspan and a long, prominent tail. Its eyes are red, contrasting with a dark blue face. It possesses a stout body, strong legs, and a sharp beak.

It’s found in the city’s forests, woodlands, and marshes, and also near water bodies such as streams, rivers, and ponds. The greater coucal, which thrives in natural and human-altered landscapes, makes a common sight in Shenzhen’s gardens, parks, and even urban areas, where they delight bird lovers with its unique whoop-whoop call.

The greater coucal is an omnivorous bird with a diverse diet. It feeds on insects, small mammals, birds, reptiles, and eggs. It is exceptionally skilled at catching such bigger insects as grasshoppers and crickets, using its swift movements and sharp beak.

During their breeding season, the bird engages in fascinating courtship rituals. The male performs an elaborate display, spreading its wings and tail while making deep booming calls to attract a female. Once the pair bond is established, they build a large, untidy nest of twigs and leaves, usually hidden within dense vegetation. The female lays several eggs, and both parents take turns to incubate them. The parents then diligently care for their hatchlings, providing them food and protection until they leave the nest.

The bird plays a crucial role in local ecosystems. As an insectivorous bird, it helps control the population of pests, small mammals, and reptiles. Moreover, the greater coucal plays a role in dispersing seeds, as it consumes various fruits and excretes the undigested seeds in different locations, promoting plant diversity and regeneration.

However, this amazing bird is not easy to spot, due to its shy behavior and its tendency to hide within the vegetation. If you see it, or hear its call, feel fortunate, and enjoy the beauty of our unique biodiversity.