The labyrinthine mangroves of Malaysia, where twisting roots intertwine like the veins of the earth, are home to many mysterious birds. One of these, spending at least some time during migration amidst the humid heat, dense foliage and murky water, is the elusive figure of the Large Hawk-Cuckoo (Hierococcyx sparverioides). It is a bird with a special fascination.
As one ventures into the heart of the mangroves, one is greeted by a symphony of sounds. Of particular note are the sounds of the insects. The style of cicadas in particular ranges from chirping to circular saw staccato. The rustling of leaves and the distant calls of invisible creatures also complete the impression of an tremendous background noise. Amid this cacophony of voices and noises, the presence of the Large Hawk-Cuckoo remains mysterious. His haunting calls echo through the dense foliage and do not reach everyone’s ears. In breeding season, the calls last at dawn and at sunset into the night. It is a loud, shrill screaming whistle, such like “brain fe-ver” or “pi-PEE-ha”, increasing in speed and pitch to frantic climax, ending as “bee-frever”.
The elegance of the Large Hawk-Cuckoo is immediately apparent to the viewer when he sees one. With its slender shape and striking, inconspicuous plumage, the Great Hawk-Cuckoo cuts a fine figure in the mangrove canopy. Its deep brown and creamy white plumage blends seamlessly with the play of light and shadow of the tropical day. Filtered through the dense foliage, it makes the Large Hawk-Cuckoo almost invisible to the untrained eye. The bird normally forages solitarily and quietly in trees, where it remains in canopy and midstorey, often remaining virtually motionless for long periods.
Consequently the sighting of this Large Hawk-Cuckoo was due to the fact that it flew into a tree below the tower during a stay at the bird observation tower in the Kuala Selangor Nature Park. The movement of a bird flying in attracted attention.
The Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens is fast on a Canon EOS R5, mounted on the Gitzo tripod GT3542 XLS Systematic with the FlexShooter Pro Lever Black ball head positioned. The bird allows a few pictures, but flies off after a few moments and remains missing.
A master of disguise, the Great Hawk-Cuckoo blends effortlessly into its surroundings as it moves with remarkable inconspicuousness through the tangled maze of trees in the mangroves.
Perhaps the most captivating aspect of the Large Hawk-Cuckoo’s presence is its haunting call, a melodic refrain that echoes through the mangrove maze like the song of a siren. Sounded in the silence of dawn or in the fading light of dusk, it takes nature enthusiasts into the mysterious depths of the mangrove forest.
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