Black-winged flycatcher-shrike

The black-winged flycatcher-shrike is a species of bird in the flycatcher-shrike genus, Hemipus. It is usually placed in the Vangidae. It is found in the Malay Peninsula and the Greater Sunda Islands. Its natural habitats are lowland forests and sometimes swamps and mangroves. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has assessed it as being of least concern.

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Distribution

Region

Sundaland (Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, Java)

Typical Environment

Occurs in the Malay Peninsula southward and on the Greater Sunda Islands, where it inhabits primary and secondary lowland evergreen forest, forest edges, swamps, and mangroves. It favors the midstory to canopy but will descend to lower levels along edges and clearings. The species adapts moderately well to lightly disturbed habitats, provided tree cover remains. It is generally absent from heavily degraded open areas. Local densities can be higher in forest mosaics with a mix of tall trees and gaps.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1200 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size12–14 cm

Wing Span20–25 cm

Male Weight0.013 kg

Female Weight0.012 kg

Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A small, active canopy bird of Sundaland, the black-winged flycatcher-shrike often joins mixed-species flocks as it hunts insects. Despite its name, it is usually placed in the family Vangidae rather than with true flycatchers. It perches upright and makes short sallies to snatch prey, frequently foraging along forest edges and in mangroves. The species is assessed as Least Concern but is sensitive to extensive lowland forest loss.

Gallery

Behaviour

Temperament

social and active

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies

Social Behavior

Usually seen in pairs or small family groups and frequently joins mixed-species flocks in the canopy. Builds a small cup nest on a horizontal branch, with both parents participating in care. Territorial calls are given from exposed perches within the mid to upper canopy.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

Song and calls are thin, high-pitched whistles and short trills, often delivered in quick series. Vocalizations can be subtle and easily overlooked amid mixed-flock activity.

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Identification

Comb Type

Plumage Description

Feather Color

Leg Color

Earlobe Color

Eye Color

Feeding Habits

Diet

Preferred Environment

Requires Supplement

Population

Conservation Status

Species Status

Wild Population

Total Known Population

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