| IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature): | Least Concern
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| Approximate size(adult): | About 19–21 cm in length; weight around 60–90 g. It has a buff-colored body, black cap, and bluish base to the bill. Both sexes look similar, though males have slightly glossier plumage during breeding. The crest on the head gives it a distinctive look.
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| Resident/ Migrate from: | Resident species across India, Nepal, and parts of Southeast Asia. Some populations show local seasonal movements depending on food and breeding conditions.
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| Migrate to: | Mostly non-migratory, though it may move locally to warmer plains or agricultural areas during the winter.
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| Breeding season: | March to September, peaking before the monsoon. Courtship includes singing, crest-raising, and mutual preening.
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| Breed in: | Nests in tree holes, cavities in buildings, or old woodpecker nests, often in colonies. The nest is lined with grass, feathers, and twigs. Clutch size is 3–5 eggs, incubated by both parents.
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| Habitat: | Common in open countryside, farmlands, gardens, orchards, and city parks. Often seen perching in groups on trees, wires, or near human habitation.
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| Diet: | Omnivorous — feeds on insects, fruits, nectar, and grains. Forages on the ground and in trees, often following grazing cattle to catch disturbed insects. Plays a role in seed dispersal.
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