racket-tailed drongo

The racket-tailed drongo (Dicrurus paradiseus) is a species of Old World woodland bird belonging to the family Dicruridae. These birds are known for their glossy black plumage, fiery red eyes, and distinctive forked tails. The racket-tailed drongo's tail features unique outer feathers that are unbranched for most of their length, ending in vanes that resemble rackets.1

Drongos are found across Africa, Central Asia, Australia, and western Pacific islands, inhabiting various environments from forests to open country. They are insectivores, feeding on large insects and termites, and are known for their loud vocalizations, which can include mimicry. Drongos are also recognized for their aggressive behavior, often attacking larger birds to protect their nests and young. The black drongo (D. macrocercus), also called the king crow, is a common species in southern Asia.12