Classification of Eudynamis scolopaceus (Koel)

• Phylum :- Chordata (Dorsal tubular nerve cord, notochord and gill-slits present.)
• Group :- Craniata (Definite head, Cranium with brain present.)
• Sub phylum :- Vertebrata (Vertebral column present.)
• Division :- Gnathostomata (Jaws and paired appendages present.)
• Super Class :- Tetrapoda (Paired limbs, lungs, cornified skin and bony skeleton.)
• Class :- Aves (Biped and feathered vertebrates.)
• Sub Class :- Neornithes (True birds. Metacarpals fused.)
• Super Order :- Neognathae (Modern birds. no teeth. sternum keeled.)
• Order :- Cuculiformes (Toes 2 infront and 2 behind.)
• Genus :- Eudynamis
• Species :- scolopaceus

Geographical distribution

• Eudynamis scolopaceus is commonly found in India, Pakistan, China, Philippines and Australia.

Habit and habitat

• It lives on trees of gardens, groves, large leafy trees and their frequent voice kuoo kuoo is often heard during mango season. It feeds on banyan and peepul figs, berries, and also insects and caterpillars. The bird has the habit of laying its eggs in the nests of crows and throwing on them the responsibility of raising its young.

General Characteristics of Eudynamis scolopaceus (Koel)

• Commonly called as Koel.
• Body divisible into head, neck, breast and abdomen.
• Head contains eyes and beak.
• Beak adapted for seed eating.
• Sexual dimorphism is conspicuous.
• Male is black all over having glistening metalic colour with blood red eyes and pale bill.
• Female is brown with white spots.
• Beak tip pointed and curved downwards.
• Eyes small with rounded pupil. Tail long.
• Hind limbs contain reversible toes with 2 toes infront and 2 toes behind.
• Wing feathers folded over the body and tail feathers long.
• In summer months the call of male bird is very familiar kuoo-kuoo-kuoo. Female does not sing.

Ecological Importance

The Asian koel (Eudynamis scolopaceus), a member of the cuckoo family, plays an important ecological role in the ecosystems it inhabits. This bird, widely distributed across South and Southeast Asia, is known for its distinctive call and unique behaviors. Its ecological importance includes the following:

1. Seed Dispersal

• Asian koels are primarily frugivorous, feeding on fruits from various plants and trees. They consume the pulp and disperse seeds through their droppings, aiding in plant regeneration and forest expansion.
• Their movement across different habitats ensures the wide distribution of seeds, promoting biodiversity in vegetation.

2. Pollination

• While primarily fruit eaters, koels occasionally consume nectar from flowers. In doing so, they may assist in the pollination of some plant species, enhancing their reproductive success.

3. Regulation of Fruit-Bearing Trees

• By feeding on ripe fruits, koels contribute to natural pruning, which prevents overripe fruits from accumulating on trees. This activity indirectly benefits the tree by reducing the risk of attracting pests or pathogens.

4. Role in Food Web

• Koels serve as both predator and prey within their ecosystems. They consume fruits and insects, contributing to energy transfer within the food web. Additionally, they are preyed upon by larger birds, reptiles, and mammals, supporting predator populations.

5. Host-Parasite Dynamics

• As brood parasites, female koels lay their eggs in the nests of other bird species, such as crows and mynas. While this can reduce the reproductive success of the host species, it creates complex ecological interactions that influence bird population dynamics and nesting behaviors.
• The host birds may adapt by improving nest defenses, which can lead to coevolutionary changes in both species.

6. Indicator of Habitat Health

• The presence of Asian koels often indicates a healthy, fruit-rich habitat, as their diet depends on the availability of fruits from diverse plant species. Declines in koel populations may signal habitat degradation or loss of biodiversity.

7. Nutrient Cycling

• By consuming fruits and defecating seeds and organic matter, koels contribute to nutrient cycling in their habitats, enriching the soil and supporting plant growth.

Conservation Implications

• Although the Asian koel is not currently threatened, habitat destruction and loss of fruit-bearing trees could impact its populations. Conserving their habitats ensures the continuation of the ecological roles they fulfill.

In summary, Eudynamis scolopaceus is vital for seed dispersal, pollination, and maintaining dynamic interactions within ecosystems. Its role as a brood parasite and its reliance on fruit-bearing plants emphasize the interconnectedness of species and the importance of habitat conservation.

Special Features

• Koel amuses the ears of mankind by its beautiful and sweet voice. The poets have often associated koel in their romantic poems. The female nestling Koel is much darker than adult female, an adaptation to deceive foster parents, i.e., crows.

Identification

• Since this bird has pale bill, red eyes and above features, hence it is male Eudynamis scolopaceus.