Fork-tailed Drongo look-alikes
Dicrurus adsimilis
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Fork-tailed Drongo. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
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Square-tailed Drongo
Dicrurus ludwigii
Key differences
The Square-tailed Drongo is smaller (18-20 cm) and has a less deeply forked, almost square-ended tail. Its plumage is less glossy, and its eyes are dark brown, not red. It typically inhabits denser forest and woodland.
Velvet-mantled Drongo
Dicrurus modestus
Key differences
Found in West and Central African forests. It is generally larger and has a less deeply forked tail than the Fork-tailed Drongo. Its plumage is often described as having a more velvety texture, and its eyes are dark.
Common Drongo (Black Drongo)
Dicrurus macrocercus
Key differences
Found in Asia. While very similar in appearance with glossy black plumage and a deeply forked tail, its eyes are dark brown/reddish-brown, not bright red. Its tail fork is typically wider and more splayed than that of the Fork-tailed Drongo.
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