How to identify the Fork-tailed Drongo

To correctly identify the Fork-tailed Drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis), check each of these features. Birds can be tricky: habit, habitat, and call often confirm a sighting that a single photo cannot.

Size at a glance

Length

23-28 cm

Wingspan

40-45 cm

Weight

39-56 g

Physical features to check

1. 1

   Plumage

   Overall feather coloration and pattern.

   Adults are entirely glossy black, often with a metallic blue-green sheen visible in good light, especially on the head and upperparts. The feathers are soft and velvety. There are no significant seasonal plumage changes.

2. 2

   Beak shape

   Shape and color of the bill: a key field mark.

   The beak is stout, slightly hooked at the tip, and black. It is relatively broad at the base, typical for an insectivorous bird that catches prey in flight.

3. 3

   Eye color

   Iris color and any distinctive eye markings.

   Bright red, a striking feature against the black plumage.

4. 4

   Leg color

   Leg and foot color.

   Black

5. 5

   Distinguishing features

   Standout features that separate this species.

   Deeply forked tail (hence the name), glossy black plumage, and bright red eyes. The tail streamers are slightly outcurved.

6. 6

   Juvenile appearance

   How young birds differ from adults.

   Juveniles are duller black than adults, often with a brownish tinge, and lack the glossy sheen. Their eyes are typically dark brown, gradually changing to red as they mature. The tail fork may be less pronounced.

7. 7

   Seasonal changes

   Plumage variation between breeding and non-breeding seasons.

   No significant seasonal plumage changes. The glossy black plumage is consistent year-round.

8. 8

   Sexual dimorphism

   How males and females differ.

   Males and females are monomorphic, appearing identical in plumage and size.

Key field marks

• Plumage. Look for entirely glossy black plumage, often with a metallic sheen in sunlight. No other colors or markings.
• Tail Shape. Observe the tail, which is distinctly and deeply forked, with the outer feathers curving slightly outwards.
• Eye Color. A key field mark is the bright red eye, which stands out against the black head. Juveniles have dark eyes.
• Size and Build. Medium-sized passerine (23-28 cm) with a robust build and a relatively large head.
• Behavior. Watch for its aggressive nature, mobbing of larger birds, and its habit of perching conspicuously on exposed branches or wires, often sallying out to catch insects.
• Vocalizations. Listen for its varied and often mimetic calls, which can include harsh notes, whistles, and imitations of other species.

Explore the Fork-tailed Drongo