The drongo fantail, also known as the pygmy drongo, is a species of passerine bird endemic to the island of New Guinea. It is the only species in the genus Chaetorhynchus. The species was long placed within the drongo family Dicruridae, but it differs from others in that family in having twelve rectrices instead of ten. Molecular analysis also supports moving the species out from the drongo family, instead placing it as a sister species to the silktail of Fiji, and both those species in the fantail family Rhipiduridae.
Region
New Guinea
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout lowland and hill rainforests across New Guinea, in both primary and well-structured secondary forest. It frequents shaded interiors, edges, and gaps where it can sally after flying insects. Often follows mixed-species flocks through the mid-storey, gleaning and hawking in quick bursts. It can be found along forest streams, vine tangles, and beneath the canopy where light levels are filtered.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the pygmy drongo, it is endemic to New Guinea and the sole member of its genus. Although once placed with true drongos, genetic studies show it is a close relative of Fiji’s silktail within the fantail family (Rhipiduridae). Unusually for former ‘drongos’, it has twelve tail feathers (rectrices) rather than ten. It is an agile insect-hunter that often joins mixed-species flocks in forest interiors.
Temperament
active and agile
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, but commonly associates with mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs defend small areas within suitable forest but range widely while feeding. Nesting is presumed to be similar to other fantails, with a neat cup nest placed in a forked branch and cooperative care by both adults.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives thin, high-pitched whistles interspersed with dry churring notes. Phrases are brief and repeated, often delivered while foraging. Alarm calls are sharper and more metallic.
Plumage
Mostly glossy black to sooty-black with a subtle bluish sheen; feathers are smooth, with a slightly fuller tail that is often fanned.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small flying and foliage-dwelling insects such as flies, beetles, moths, and ants, and may also take small spiders. It employs sallying flights from perches to catch prey in mid-air, and gleaning to pick insects from leaves and bark. Foraging is rapid, with frequent perch changes and tail-fanning.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the mid-storey and lower canopy of humid forest interiors, especially along edges, gaps, and stream corridors. Often follows mixed-species flocks where insect activity is highest.
