The Koel is a distinctive spring visitor to Mission Beach and the birds remain in the village until the end of April or early May before migrating north to PNG and possibly further north. Arriving in August or September they are more often heard with the males having the loud ‘Coo-eee’ call that is often heard pre dawn soon after their arrival. True cuckoos, their hosts include Friarbirds and Drongos.
The diet is principally fruit with native figs popular as well as Mulberries.
The genders vary greatly in appearance with the males almost all dark and glossy plumaged with prominent red eyes and the females streaked brown and white with numerous spots about the wings.
Look for them in fruiting rainforest trees.
Good luck and good birding
Adrian Walker aka Professor Birdbrain
Adrian’s book – Birds of Mission Beach and environs is available through the Mission Beach Visitor Centre at $5.00 plus postage. To purchase call on 07 4068 7099 or email enquiry@missionbeachtourism.com
