Fork tailed drongo

Introduction: The wide habitat range of the fork-tailed drongo (Dicrurus adsimilis) includes riverine woodland, grassland, gardens, farmyards and town parks. Usually found singly or in pairs and up to 20 birds where sufficient perching positions and food sources are available. Bathes by plunge-diving. Rain-bathes during light rain by spreading their wings and tail and raising the back feathers.

Distribution: Common throughout the country less for the arid western regions of Namibia.

Diet: Catches prey aerially from the perch or on the ground. Eats a wide range of food including small lizards, hornets and small fish. Also takes ticks from cattle.

Description: Overall black black plumage with purplish sheen. Deeply forked tail in flight, hence the name. Adsimilis refers to the uniform black plumage.

Breeding: A shallow cup-shaped nest built of leaves and twigs is bound by spider web, where 2 to 4 eggs are laid from September to January and incubated for up to 18 days.

Size: 25cm.

Weight: 45g.