The black-backed forktail, occasionally referred to as the black-throated forktail, is a forktail species in the family Muscicapidae. The species was described in 1836, from a specimen collected in Nepal. It is a medium-sized forktail, weighing between 25 and 29 grams, with a length of 20.5 to 23 centimetres. The species has a broad white stripe across its forehead. The crown, face, and mantle are black, while the bird's underparts are white, sharply divided from the black above. The wings are largely black with a broad white stripe across the greater coverts. The tail of the species, similar to that of other forktails, is long, graduated, and deeply forked. The tail is black with a white tip and three white bands created by shorter tail feathers. The beak of the bird is black, while the feet and legs are light pink, and the iris is brown. The species is monomorphic.
Region
Himalayas and northern Indochina
Typical Environment
Occurs from Nepal and northeastern India through Bhutan and Myanmar into parts of southwest China and northern Thailand/Laos. It is tightly associated with clear, rocky, fast-flowing streams and rivers in forested valleys and gorges. Birds use boulders, logs, and shingle bars as foraging perches and move along watercourses rather than across forest. In the non-breeding season they may descend to lower valleys where suitable streams persist.
Altitude Range
200–2200 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A stream specialist of the Himalayan foothills and northern Indochina, the black-backed forktail is an indicator of clean, fast-flowing water. It constantly wags and fans its deeply forked tail while foraging on boulders and along riffles. Pairs defend linear territories along forested streams and may shift to lower elevations in winter. Its striking black-and-white pattern and bold white forehead band make it one of the most conspicuous forktails.
Temperament
shy but active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over water
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs, maintaining linear territories along stretches of stream. Nests on banks, ledges, or roots close to water, often concealed among rocks. Both parents incubate and feed the young, and pairs may raise more than one brood where conditions allow.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A thin, high-pitched series of whistles and sibilant trills, given from perches along the stream. Frequent sharp tick or chip calls while foraging or in short flights.
Plumage
Sharp black-and-white contrast: glossy black crown, face, mantle, wings, and upper tail, with clean white underparts and a broad white forehead band. Wings show a bold white bar across the greater coverts. The long tail is deeply forked with a white tip and multiple white bars from shorter rectrices.
Diet
Feeds mainly on aquatic and semi-aquatic invertebrates, including mayfly, stonefly, and caddisfly larvae, as well as beetles and small crustaceans. Picks prey from wet rock surfaces, leaf litter, and shallow margins, and occasionally hawks short distances over the water. Often turns leaves and probes crevices among boulders.
Preferred Environment
Clear, fast-flowing forest streams with rocky beds, cascades, and exposed boulders. Prefers shaded ravines and intact riparian vegetation with ample perches near water.
