The Hair-crested Drongo is a large, robust drongo with iridescent black plumage and a long, deeply forked tail. It is distinguished by a subtle crest of sparse, hair-like feathers on its forehead, often only visible at close range. It's a highly adaptable and vocal insectivore.
Where to spot
Widespread across Southeast Asia, from India to Indonesia, including many islands. It inhabits a wide range of wooded habitats, including forests, woodlands, plantations, and even urban parks.
How to spot
Look for its robust size, glossy black plumage, and deeply forked tail. Try to discern the subtle hair-like crest on its forehead. It is highly vocal, with a wide repertoire of calls including harsh notes, gurgles, and mimicry.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours, observable year-round. It is a resident species, though some populations may undertake local movements.
Where to spot
Widespread across Southeast Asia, from India to Indonesia, including many islands. It inhabits a wide range of wooded habitats, including forests, woodlands, plantations, and even urban parks.
How to spot
Look for its robust size, glossy black plumage, and deeply forked tail. Try to discern the subtle hair-like crest on its forehead. It is highly vocal, with a wide repertoire of calls including harsh notes, gurgles, and mimicry.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours, observable year-round. It is a resident species, though some populations may undertake local movements.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The 'hair-crested' feature is so subtle that it can be easily missed, requiring close observation, which adds to the challenge and reward of identifying this widespread drongo.
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