Grand Comore drongo

Overview

Wikipedia

The Grand Comore drongo is a species of bird in the family Dicruridae. It is endemic to Comoros.

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Distribution

Region

Western Indian Ocean (Comoros Archipelago)

Typical Environment

Occurs mainly on Grande Comore, using native evergreen forest, secondary growth, and agroforestry mosaics. It favors forest edges, clearings, and plantations where perches are plentiful and insect activity is high. On volcanic slopes, it occupies mid-elevation habitats but can descend to coastal areas. It tolerates some disturbance and may be seen near villages and along roads. Breeding territories are typically set in wooded areas with a mix of tall trees and open gaps.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size24–28 cm

Wing Span30–36 cm

Male Weight0.06 kg

Female Weight0.055 kg

Life Expectancy8 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

This glossy black drongo is restricted to the Comoros, where it boldly hawks insects from exposed perches. Like other drongos, it is an agile aerial hunter and a confident defender of its territory. It is known to mimic calls of other birds and may follow human activity or livestock to snatch flushed insects.

Behaviour

Temperament

bold and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies

Social Behavior

Usually seen singly or in pairs, especially during the breeding season. Forms loose family groups post-fledging and may join mixed-species flocks when foraging. Builds a small cup nest high in a tree and aggressively defends it against intruders.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A varied mix of whistles, harsh scolds, and chattering notes delivered from prominent perches. Capable of mimicry, incorporating fragments of other species’ calls into its repertoire. Alarm calls are sharp and repeated when predators approach.

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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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