White-crowned Forktail
NameWhite-crowned Forktail
Common NameWhite-crowned Forktail
Scientific NameEnicurus leschenaulti
FamilyMuscicapidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsThis species has glossy black upperparts, head, and breast, contrasting sharply with a prominent white crown patch. It features a broad white wing-bar, white lower belly, and a long, deeply forked black tail with white outer tail feathers and white bars across the inner feathers.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a sharp, high-pitched 'tsee-tsee' or 'swee-swee', often given while foraging. It also has a more complex, melodious song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, mountain
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across a wide range in Southeast Asia, including parts of the Himalayas, northeastern India, southern China, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia (Sumatra, Java, Borneo).
Identifying FeaturesProminent white crown patch, Glossy black upperparts and breast, White wing-bar, Long, deeply forked black and white tail, Prefers fast-flowing mountain streams
Description
The White-crowned Forktail is a striking black and white bird typically found near fast-flowing mountain streams. It forages actively along the water's edge, often flicking its long, deeply forked tail up and down.
