The crested drongo is a passerine bird in the family Dicruridae. It is black with a bluish-green sheen, a distinctive crest on the forehead and a forked tail. There are two subspecies; D. f. forficatus is endemic to Madagascar and D. f. potior, which is larger, is found on the Comoro Islands. Its habitat is lowland forests, both dry and humid, and open savannah country. It is a common bird and the IUCN has listed it as "least concern".
Region
Western Indian Ocean (Madagascar and Comoros)
Typical Environment
Occurs widely in Madagascar and on the Comoro Islands in both humid and dry lowland forests, forest edges, and secondary growth. It uses open woodland, savannah with scattered trees, and plantations, often perching on exposed branches, wires, or tree crowns. The species tolerates disturbed habitats and frequently forages along clearings and roadsides. On smaller islands it persists in remnant native woodland and agroforestry mosaics.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
The crested drongo is a glossy black drongo with a forward-pointing crest and a shallowly forked tail, common across Madagascar and parts of the Comoros. It is a bold, conspicuous perch-hunter that often sallies out to catch insects on the wing and will readily mob much larger birds of prey. Like many drongos, it has a varied voice and can mimic other species’ calls. Its adaptability to forest edges and human-modified habitats helps keep populations stable.
Temperament
bold and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies; strong flier over short distances
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, defending feeding and nesting territories. Nests are shallow cups placed on horizontal branches in trees. Both sexes participate in territory defense and mobbing of intruders. Outside breeding, small loose groups may form where food is abundant.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocal repertoire includes sharp metallic notes, whistles, and chattering phrases. Calls are varied and can include mimicry of other birds, delivered from exposed perches.
