LESSER COUCAL

BURUNG BUT BUT KECIL

Lesser Coucal (Centropus bengalensis)

The Lesser Coucal is a bird species found across South and Southeast Asia, including Malaysia. It is a member of the cuckoo family but exhibits behaviors more typical of ground-dwelling birds.

This bird measures about 38–40 cm in length and has a distinctive appearance. Its upperparts are dark brown to black, with a glossy sheen, while the wings are a rich reddish-brown (rufous) in color. It has a long, black tail and striking red eyes, which stand out against its plumage.

The Lesser Coucal is an omnivore, feeding on insects, small animals, and even seeds. It is often seen foraging on the ground or among tall grasses, moving stealthily through dense vegetation.

Unlike most cuckoos, the Lesser Coucal does not practice brood parasitism. Instead, it builds its own nests in the grass or shrubs and raises its chicks directly. It is shy and secretive, often making low, booming calls that echo through its habitat.

The Lesser Coucal is adaptable and thrives in diverse environments, such as grasslands, wetlands, and agricultural fields. It is not currently considered threatened, but habitat changes could impact its populations in the future.

IUCN Redlist - Least Concern (LC)