The crow pheasant, scientifically known as Centropus sinensis, is a large bird species belonging to the cuckoo family (Cuculidae). It is primarily found in South and Southeast Asia, including countries such as India, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and Thailand.
The crow pheasant is characterized by its medium-sized and stout body, which measures around 40-48 centimeters in length. It possesses a long, slightly curved bill, which is black in color, as are its legs and feet. The plumage of this bird species is predominantly black, resembling the coloration of a crow, hence its common name. However, it sports a chestnut-colored patch on its wings and undertail, which differentiates it from other similar species.
This bird generally resides in forests, grasslands, and cultivated areas, and can often be spotted perched on low trees, fence posts, or telephone wires. The crow pheasant is an omnivorous bird, feeding on a varied diet that includes insects, small reptiles, rodents, seeds, and fruit. It is known for its loud, repetitive calls, which sound like a series of harsh, repetitive, and high-pitched notes, often uttered in the morning or during the breeding season.
The breeding behavior of the crow pheasant involves the construction of a large, domed nest made of twigs, grass, and leaves, generally positioned on low olean-der branches or among tall grass. The female usually lays a clutch of 4-5 eggs, which are incubated by both parents. The eggs hatch after a period of approximately 14-15 days, and the chicks are cared for and fed by the parents until they become independent.
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