Spotted Forktail

Overview

The spotted forktail (Enicurus maculatus) is a bird species found in the Himalayas, Northeast India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and southern China. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• 25 cm in length with a long, deeply forked tail graduated in black and white.
• Features a white forehead, black crown and nape, and a black back spotted white with a broad white wing bar.
• Emits a shrill, screechy 'KREE' call, usually given in flight, along with shrill, squeaky notes when perched.

Habitat

It inhabits subtropical or tropical moist montane forests, specifically preferring boulder-strewn torrents, forest streams, and roadside canals. Breeding occurs between 1200 and 3600 m elevation, with the species descending to approximately 600 m during winter.

Did you know?

Its white-spotted back serves as a key visual marker, allowing it to be easily identified even among other similarly sized forktails.