Spangled Drongo
NameSpangled Drongo
Common NameSpangled Drongo
Scientific NameDicrurus bracteatus
FamilyDicruridae
Wingspan (cm)47
Length (cm)30
Weight (g)82.5
Plumage DetailsEntirely glossy black plumage with iridescent blue-green spangles, particularly noticeable on the head and neck, giving a 'spangled' appearance in good light. The eyes are a prominent bright red.
Vocalization / CallHighly vocal with a diverse repertoire of calls, ranging from harsh, metallic, and scolding notes to melodious whistles and impressive mimicry of other bird species.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, urban, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across eastern and northern Australia, New Guinea, and some surrounding islands, with migratory populations in parts of its range.
Identifying Featuresglossy black plumage, bright red eyes, deeply forked tail, iridescent spangles on head/neck, stout, slightly hooked bill
Description
The Spangled Drongo is a medium-sized, glossy black bird with a distinctive deeply forked tail and striking red eyes. It is known for its agile flight while hawking insects and its remarkably varied vocalizations, often including mimicry.
