Dicrurus montanus
The Sulawesi Drongo, *Dicrurus montanus*, is a striking medium-sized passerine endemic to the montane forests of Sulawesi, Indonesia. Measuring between 24-28 cm in length, this species is characterized by its entirely glossy black plumage, which often shimmers with iridescent blue or green hues in direct sunlight. A key field mark for adults is their conspicuous bright red eyes, contrasting sharply with their dark feathers, along with a deeply forked tail and a subtle crest on its forecrown. ...
Found exclusively in montane primary and secondary forests, typically occurring at elevations above 1,000 meters and up to at least 2,000 meters.
Primarily an insectivorous species, consuming a wide range of flying invertebrates such as grasshoppers, moths, and beetles, caught mainly through aerial hawking. Occasionally supplements its diet with small vertebrates, nectar, or fruit.
The Sulawesi Drongo is a highly active diurnal bird, spending its day foraging and engaging in territorial displays. It primarily employs a perch-and-sally foraging technique, launching from an exposed perch to snatch flying insects mid-air, often returning to the same or a nearby lookout. This s...
The Sulawesi Drongo is exclusively endemic to the large Indonesian island of Sulawesi, where it is found throughout the main landmass and its various peninsulas. Its distribution spans across the Minahasa, Eastern, Southeastern, and Southwestern regions of Sulawesi. This species is a true montane...
Least Concern
- The Sulawesi Drongo is entirely endemic to the island of Sulawesi, making it a unique avian jewel of Indonesia. - Adults possess striking bright red eyes, a distinctive feature that helps differentiate it from other drongo species. - Known as master mimics, they can imitate the calls of numerou...