Purple Cochoa

In the dappled light of the forest, one might catch a glimpse of the Purple Cochoa, a bird whose plumage truly comes to life under the sun's caress. The male of the species boasts a silvery blue crown, elegantly contrasted by a black mask that extends over the eyes. A grey carpal patch adorns the base of the black wing feathers, and the wings themselves display a conspicuous patch. The tail mirrors the crown with its silvery blue hue, culminating in a black terminal band. The male's secondary feathers and coverts are a muted purplish grey, while the body is a more subdued greyish tone. The female, on the other hand, presents with rufous where the male shows purple.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Purple Cochoa, look for the distinctive silvery blue of the crown and tail, the black mask across the eye, and the grey carpal patch at the wing's base. The male's dull purplish grey secondaries and the female's rufous tones are also key identifiers.

Habitat

This species is a denizen of the subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests, as well as the subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.

Distribution

The Purple Cochoa's range extends across various parts of Asia, including Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal, Thailand, and Vietnam. In India, its presence is noted along the Himalayas, extending to about 100 km west of Mussoorie.

Behaviour

The Purple Cochoa is a species that prefers the upper reaches of the forest canopy, often remaining motionless as it surveys its domain. During the breeding season, which spans from May to July, it constructs a cup-shaped nest adorned with moss, lichens, and a distinctive white thread-like fungus. Both sexes share the duty of incubation, taking turns to warm the three pale sea-green eggs, which are marked with blotchy patterns. The species exhibits a shy demeanor at the nest, often retreating at the slightest disturbance.

Song & Calls

The Purple Cochoa's vocal repertoire includes a low whistle that carries through the forest air. Additional calls are comprised of a 'sit' and a soft 'trrrs'. In the mornings and evenings, a whistling call reminiscent of the iora can be heard.

Diet and Feeding

A varied diet sustains the Purple Cochoa, including berries, insects, and molluscs. Observations have noted that while foraging for fruits, they exhibit flycatcher-like behavior, making short sallies from their perches.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List currently classifies the Purple Cochoa as Least Concern, indicating that, for now, this species does not face an immediate threat of extinction.