Indian cuckooshrike

The Indian cuckooshrike is a species of bird in the cuckooshrike family Campephagidae that is found on the Indian subcontinent. Formerly under the English name "large cuckooshrike" this species included many subspecies and had a large range that included Southeast Asia.

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Distribution

Region

Indian Subcontinent

Typical Environment

Occurs across much of the Indian subcontinent in wooded habitats including moist and dry deciduous forest, semi-evergreen forest, well-wooded hillsides, plantations, orchards, and large tree-lined parks. It favors the mid- to upper canopy, moving methodically along branches and among foliage. The species tolerates moderately degraded woodland and edges but is scarce in treeless open country. It often accompanies mixed-species foraging parties in forest edges and along wooded streams.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 2000 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size23–26 cm

Wing Span35–40 cm

Male Weight0.09 kg

Female Weight0.08 kg

Life Expectancy10 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

The Indian cuckooshrike is a medium-sized, predominantly grey bird of the canopy, often overlooked because it forages quietly among foliage. It was once lumped within the wider 'large cuckooshrike' complex that stretched into Southeast Asia, but is now treated as an Indian subcontinent endemic sensu lato. Pairs maintain loose territories and frequently join mixed-species flocks while feeding. Its diet is dominated by caterpillars, which it deftly plucks from leaves.

Gallery

A male from West Bengal

Indian cuckooshrike or Large cuckooshrike

Behaviour

Temperament

quiet and unobtrusive, often shy

Flight Pattern

direct flight with short rapid wingbeats between trees

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups. Joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy, especially while foraging. The nest is a neat cup placed high on a horizontal branch, and both sexes participate in nesting duties.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Vocalizations are soft, including mellow whistles and subdued chattering notes. Typical calls include repeated 'chak' or 'chup' notes given from cover. Song is a brief, low series of whistles delivered intermittently.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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