Blyth's Paradise-Flycatcher
NameBlyth's Paradise-Flycatcher
Common NameBlyth's Paradise-Flycatcher
Scientific NameTerpsiphone affinis
FamilyMonarchidae
Wingspan (cm)23
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)20
Plumage DetailsMales typically have a glossy black head with a prominent crest, white underparts, white wings, and two exceptionally long white central tail streamers. Females also have a glossy black head and crest, but their underparts are greyish, and their back, wings, and shorter tail are rufous-chestnut.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include a series of sharp, whistling notes, often described as 'whee-whee-whee' or 'swee-swee-swee', sometimes interspersed with harsher churring sounds.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range in Southeast Asia, including parts of India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia (Sumatra, Borneo, Java), and the Philippines.
Identifying FeaturesExtremely long white tail streamers in males, Prominent glossy black crest on head, Distinct sexual dimorphism (males white with long streamers, females rufous with shorter tails), Active, agile flight while foraging
Description
This medium-sized passerine is known for its striking appearance, particularly the male with its extremely long tail streamers. They are active insectivores, often seen darting through the forest canopy to catch prey. The species exhibits significant sexual dimorphism in plumage and tail length.
