Dicrurus andamanensis
The Andaman Drongo (Dicrurus andamanensis) is a striking, medium-sized passerine bird endemic to the Andaman Islands, distinguishing itself with its glossy black plumage that shimmers with an iridescent blue-green sheen, particularly visible in good light. Measuring approximately 35 cm (14 inches) in length, including its distinctive tail, it is readily identified by its deeply forked tail, whose outer feathers often curve or flare outwards, a feature unique among drongos in its range. Its br...
Primarily inhabits lowland moist deciduous and evergreen forests, as well as forest edges and plantations, typically found from sea level up to moderate elevations.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on a wide variety of arthropods captured through aerial hawking or gleaning; occasionally consumes small vertebrates or nectar.
Active throughout the day, Andaman Drongos are diurnal hunters, frequently perching conspicuously on exposed branches or power lines from which they sally forth to catch insects in mid-air. Their foraging strategy often involves aerial hawking, but they also glean prey from foliage or the ground,...
The Andaman Drongo is strictly endemic to the Andaman Islands, an archipelago belonging to India in the Bay of Bengal. Its distribution is continuous across the main islands, including North, Middle, South, and Little Andaman Islands, as well as the surrounding smaller islands and Ritchie's Archi...
Least Concern
- The Andaman Drongo is entirely endemic to the Andaman Islands, meaning it's found nowhere else on Earth. - Despite its dark plumage, its feathers possess a beautiful iridescent blue-green sheen that becomes visible in direct sunlight. - It is a master of mimicry, often incorporating the calls o...