The Gilolo fantail is a species of bird in the family Rhipiduridae that is endemic to the northern Maluku Islands from Halmahera south to the Obi. The English "Gilolo" is an earlier name for Halmahera. The Gilolo fantail was formerly considered to be a subspecies of the Australian rufous fantail.
Region
Northern Maluku, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Occurs on Halmahera south to Obi, inhabiting primary and secondary lowland and lower hill rainforest. It frequents dense understory, forest edges, and riparian thickets, and can visit older gardens near forest. Birds typically forage at low to mid levels, using quick sallies and short flights to take prey. It tolerates some habitat disturbance provided there is sufficient shrub and vine cover. Territories are maintained in well-vegetated, shaded microhabitats.
Altitude Range
0–1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Gilolo fantail is a lively insect-hawker that constantly fans and flicks its rufous tail as it forages in the understory. Endemic to the northern Maluku Islands, it was formerly treated within the Australian rufous fantail complex before being recognized as distinct. The name “Gilolo” is an older English name for Halmahera. It often accompanies mixed-species flocks in forest and edge habitats.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallying; agile understory flier
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species foraging parties in forest understory. Breeding pairs defend small territories and build neat cup nests suspended in forks or vines close to the ground or over streams. Both parents participate in nest building and chick-rearing.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Delivers high, thin trills and twitters interspersed with sharp scolding chips. Song phrases are quick and repetitive, carrying softly through the understory.
