Dicrurus balicassius
The Balicassiao (Dicrurus balicassius), also known as the Philippine Drongo, is a captivating passerine endemic to the Philippine archipelago. This medium-sized songbird, measuring 26-28 cm (10-11 inches) in length, is characterized by its entirely glossy, iridescent black plumage that shimmers with hints of blue or purple in direct sunlight. A distinctive deep, outwardly flared fork in its tail, along with prominent red eyes, are key field marks for identification, setting it apart from othe...
Primarily inhabits lowland and mid-montane primary and secondary forests, forest edges, and cultivated areas with scattered trees. Found from sea level up to approximately 2,000 meters in elevation.
Primarily insectivorous, consuming a wide array of invertebrates such as crickets, beetles, moths, and flies, often caught in flight. Also known to occasionally take small vertebrates (e.g., geckos) and nectar.
Balicassiaos are highly diurnal and conspicuous, often perching on exposed branches from which they launch agile aerial forays. Their foraging strategy is predominantly aerial hawking, snatching insects mid-flight, but they also glean prey from foliage and branches, and occasionally descend to th...
The Balicassiao is exclusively found throughout the Philippine Islands, where it is a widespread and common resident. Its distribution covers most major islands, including Luzon, Mindanao, Palawan, and the numerous Visayan islands. Three recognized subspecies exist: *Dicrurus balicassius balicass...
Least Concern
- The Balicassiao is an endemic species, found exclusively within the Philippine archipelago, making it a unique avian treasure. - Despite its relatively small size, it is renowned for its fearless aggression, frequently mobbing large birds of prey like eagles and even humans too close to its nes...