Square-tailed Drongo

Overview

The square-tailed drongo (Dicrurus ludwigii), formerly the common square-tailed drongo, is a passerine bird in the family Dicruridae. It is a common resident breeder in parts of southern Africa.

Identification

• Mainly glossy black plumage, with duller wings in males and less glossy plumage in females.
• Heavy black bill and red eye.
• Small size at 19 cm, with short legs and an upright perching posture resembling a shrike.
• Harsh call described as 'cherit-cherit'.

Habitat

These birds are usually found in forests or dense bush and are common resident breeders in parts of southern Africa.

Diet

The square-tailed drongo is insectivorous and forages by flycatching or taking prey from the ground.

Did you know?

Despite its small size of 19 cm, this species is aggressive and fearless, and will attack much larger species if its nest or young are threatened.