The black fantail is a species of bird in the family Rhipiduridae. It is found in the highlands of New Guinea. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
New Guinea Highlands
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout submontane and montane forests across the New Guinea highlands, including primary mossy forest and well-developed secondary growth. It favors interior and edge habitats with dense understory and midstory tangles. Birds are frequently found along forested streams, landslides, and natural gaps where insects are abundant. It is typically absent from lowland rainforests and open agricultural areas.
Altitude Range
1200–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The black fantail is a small, energetic flycatcher that constantly fans and flicks its tail while foraging. It inhabits cool, mossy montane forests of New Guinea and often joins mixed-species flocks. Its mostly uniform dark plumage sets it apart from other local fantails. Pairs build neat cup nests suspended in forks over streams or along shaded trails.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies and fluttering
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs and commonly joins mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs are territorial in the breeding season and perform tail-fanning displays. The nest is a small, neat cup placed in a fork, often over water or along shaded forest paths.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers thin, high-pitched twitters and short trills interspersed with sharp chips. Calls are quick and conversational, often given while actively foraging and tail-fanning.
Plumage
Mostly uniform sooty to black plumage with a slight satin sheen; broad tail often fanned, giving a rounded, paddle-like look.
Diet
Feeds mainly on small flying insects such as flies, moths, and beetles, and also takes spiders and other arthropods. It captures prey by short sallies from perches and by gleaning from leaves and twigs. Tail-fanning and wing-flicking help flush hidden insects from vegetation.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the understory to midstory within dense montane forest and along shaded edges. Often works along stream corridors, gaps, and forest trails where insect activity is concentrated.
