Crested Drongo
NameCrested Drongo
Common NameCrested Drongo
Scientific NameDicrurus hottentottus
FamilyDicruridae
Wingspan (cm)48
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)80
Plumage DetailsThe entire plumage is glossy black with a metallic blue-green sheen, particularly noticeable on the head and upperparts. It possesses a prominent, spiky crest of stiff feathers on its forehead, and its eyes are typically red. The tail is long and deeply forked.
Vocalization / CallKnown for a wide and varied repertoire of calls, including harsh, metallic, and grating notes, as well as clear whistles and often excellent mimicry of other bird species.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across South and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Indochina, southern China, and into Indonesia and the Philippines.
Identifying Featuresglossy black plumage, prominent spiky crest, deeply forked tail, red eyes, mimicry in calls
Description
This medium-sized passerine is characterized by its glossy black plumage, a distinctive spiky crest on its forehead, and a deeply forked tail. It is an agile and aggressive insectivore, often seen hawking insects in open woodlands and cultivated areas.
