Unusual sightings of the Asian koel in Melbourne raise mysteries for migration researchers

Increase in reports of the Asian koel and its loud mating call south of its usual territory may be attributable to climate change, scientists say

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Climate change may be one reason why the so-called devil bird – known for its incessant late-night mating call – has become more common in Melbourne’s outer suburbs, according to researchers.

The koel, a migratory bird, usually arrives in Australia from Papua New Guinea and Indonesia to breed from late September to early October, when the male will sing his advertising call day and night to attract a female.

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