Greater Racket-tailed Drongo
NameGreater Racket-tailed Drongo
Common NameGreater Racket-tailed Drongo
Scientific NameDicrurus paradiseus
FamilyDicruridae
Wingspan (cm)47.5
Length (cm)65
Weight (g)97.5
Plumage DetailsEntirely glossy black with a metallic sheen, often displaying a prominent crest of curled feathers on the forehead. The most distinctive feature is the long, deeply forked tail, where the outer tail feathers have bare quills that terminate in large, twisted spatules or 'rackets'.
Vocalization / CallHighly varied vocalizations, including harsh calls, whistles, and an impressive ability to mimic the calls of numerous other bird species, often incorporating them into complex sequences.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across South and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka through the Himalayas, Indochina, and into parts of Indonesia.
Identifying FeaturesLong, deeply forked tail with distinctive 'rackets', Glossy black plumage, Prominent frontal crest, Vocal mimicry
Description
This striking bird is characterized by its glossy black plumage and exceptionally long, deeply forked tail, which features distinctive bare shafts ending in spatulate 'rackets'. It is known for its aggressive behavior and remarkable vocal mimicry of other bird species.
