African Paradise-Flycatcher
NameAfrican Paradise-Flycatcher
Common NameAfrican Paradise-Flycatcher
Scientific NameTerpsiphone viridis
FamilyMonarchidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)37
Weight (g)12
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head with a prominent crest, a bright blue eye-ring, and a grey throat and breast. The back, wings, and extremely long central tail streamers are rufous, while the belly is white. Females are similar but lack the long tail streamers and have a shorter crest.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a variety of churring, whistling, and harsh notes. Common calls are described as a sharp 'zweet-zweet' or a rapid 'twee-twee-twee'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia in the west, east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featureslong rufous tail streamers (males), prominent black crest, bright blue eye-ring, rufous upperparts, grey throat and breast
Description
The African Paradise-Flycatcher is a striking passerine bird known for the male's exceptionally long tail streamers. It is an agile insectivore, often seen darting through the canopy to catch prey. This species exhibits a distinctive crest and a vibrant blue eye-ring.
