This small, insectivorous bird is characterized by its rufous-orange belly and active foraging style. The Rusty-bellied Fantail is a master of aerial acrobatics, constantly flitting through the undergrowth in search of prey. Its fan-like tail is a key identification feature.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Tanimbar Islands in Indonesia, inhabiting lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It prefers dense vegetation but can be seen along tracks and clearings.
How to spot
Look for its rufous belly and the characteristic tail-fanning behavior. It moves quickly, so patience and good binoculars are key. Listen for its distinctive, often chattering, calls.
When to spot
Best observed during daylight hours, particularly in the cooler parts of the morning and late afternoon. It is generally resident throughout its range.
Where to spot
Endemic to the Tanimbar Islands in Indonesia, inhabiting lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It prefers dense vegetation but can be seen along tracks and clearings.
How to spot
Look for its rufous belly and the characteristic tail-fanning behavior. It moves quickly, so patience and good binoculars are key. Listen for its distinctive, often chattering, calls.
When to spot
Best observed during daylight hours, particularly in the cooler parts of the morning and late afternoon. It is generally resident throughout its range.
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
Credits:
Wikimedia Commons
The Rusty-bellied Fantail often fans its tail dramatically, a behavior thought to startle insects into flight, making them easier to catch in mid-air.
We use cookies to improve your experience on our website. Essential cookies are necessary for basic functionality, while analytical cookies help us understand how visitors use our website so we can improve it.
Cookie Preferences
Customize your privacy settings
Choose which cookies you want to allow. Necessary cookies are always enabled for the basic functionality of the website. You can always change your preferences later via the cookie settings in the footer.
Necessary Cookies
These cookies are essential for the website to function properly and cannot be disabled.
Analytics Cookies
Help us understand how visitors use our website, so we can improve it.