Black Paradise-Flycatcher
NameBlack Paradise-Flycatcher
Common NameBlack Paradise-Flycatcher
Scientific NameTerpsiphone atrocaudata
FamilyMonarchidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)48
Weight (g)17.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a glossy black head, crest, upperparts, wings, and two greatly elongated central tail feathers. The underparts are white. They possess a prominent bright blue eye-ring and a pale blue bill. Females and immatures are duller with shorter tails and brownish-rufous on the back and wings.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of clear, whistling notes, often described as 'twee-twee-twee' or 'swee-swee-swee', with various melodic variations.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusnear-threatened
Geographic RangeBreeds in East Asia, including Japan, Korea, and parts of China and Taiwan. It migrates to wintering grounds in Southeast Asia, primarily the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long tail streamers (males), Glossy black upperparts with white belly, Bright blue eye-ring and bill, Small crest
Description
A striking medium-sized passerine, the male Black Paradise-Flycatcher is characterized by its glossy black plumage, white belly, and exceptionally long tail streamers. It is an agile insectivore, often observed perching and sallying from branches to catch flying insects in its forested habitat.
