Asian Koel look-alikes
Eudynamys scolopaceus
Spotted a bird? Identify it instantly with the Birdby app
Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Asian Koel. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Black-billed Koel
Eudynamys melanorhynchus
Key differences
Found only in Sulawesi and nearby islands. Males are similar to Asian Koel but have a black bill. Females are also similar but often have finer barring and a black bill.
Pacific Koel (Eastern Koel)
Eudynamys orientalis
Key differences
Often considered a separate species or a group of subspecies within E. scolopaceus. Found in Australia, New Guinea, and surrounding islands. Males are virtually identical to Asian Koel. Females tend to be more rufous-brown with less distinct barring than Asian Koel females. The primary distinction is geographic range and sometimes subtle vocal differences.
Common Cuckoo
Cuculus canorus
Key differences
Smaller, greyish plumage (male), and a different call ('cuck-oo'). It has a more hawk-like appearance in flight and is not glossy black like the male Asian Koel. Females are also distinctly different, being barred grey and white, not spotted brown.
Explore the Asian Koel
Identify birds anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo & sound identification, full species database, and your personal life list.