Square-tailed Drongo-cuckoo look-alikes
Surniculus lugubris
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Square-tailed Drongo-cuckoo. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Fork-tailed Drongo-cuckoo
Surniculus dicruroides
Key differences
The Fork-tailed Drongo-cuckoo (now often considered a subspecies or part of a species complex with S. lugubris, but historically treated separately) has a distinctly forked tail, though less deeply forked than true drongos. S. lugubris has a square-ended tail. Vocalizations also differ.
Black Drongo
Dicrurus macrocercus
Key differences
True drongos like the Black Drongo have a deeply forked tail and a more robust, slightly hooked bill. While also glossy black, their flight and calls are different. The Square-tailed Drongo-cuckoo's tail is square, not forked.
Ashy Drongo
Dicrurus leucophaeus
Key differences
Ashy Drongos are typically grey, not glossy black, and have a deeply forked tail. While some subspecies can be darker, their overall coloration and tail shape distinguish them.
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