Slaty-backed Forktail
NameSlaty-backed Forktail
Common NameSlaty-backed Forktail
Scientific NameEnicurus schistaceus
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)23.5
Weight (g)30
Plumage DetailsSlaty-grey upperparts, head, and breast, with a prominent white band across the forehead and a black throat/face mask. The belly is pure white. Wings are black with a broad white bar, and the long, deeply forked tail is black with white outer feathers and white bands.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include sharp, high-pitched 'tsee-tsee' or 'swee-swee' calls, often given while foraging. It also produces a short, sharp 'chick' or 'zit' and a song of clear, whistling notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the Himalayas and Southeast Asia, including Nepal, Bhutan, Northeast India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and southern China.
Identifying FeaturesSlaty-grey upperparts and breast, White forehead patch, Black throat and face mask, White belly, Black wings with a prominent white bar, Long, deeply forked black and white tail, Characteristic tail-wagging behavior along streams
Description
This striking bird is typically found along fast-flowing mountain streams, where it actively forages for insects. It is known for its distinctive slaty-grey, black, and white plumage and characteristic constant tail-wagging behavior.
