The little forktail is a species of bird in the family Muscicapidae. The specific name commemorates Dr. John Scouler of Glasgow.
Region
Himalayas to southern China and northern Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs along clear, fast-flowing mountain streams and shaded ravines in evergreen and mixed broadleaf forests. It favors mossy boulders, cascades, and pebbly margins where aquatic insects are abundant. Birds often stay close to water, moving from rock to rock and probing crevices. Local movements may occur along elevational gradients in response to water flow and seasonal conditions.
Altitude Range
600–3000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny, fast-moving forktail of boulder-strewn mountain streams, it belongs to the Old World flycatcher family Muscicapidae. The specific epithet honors Scottish naturalist Dr. John Scouler. It often forages on slick rocks right in the spray zone and is known to bob its tail while picking aquatic insects. Its short, shallowly forked tail and bold black-and-white pattern help distinguish it from larger forktails.
Little Forktail in Sikkim India
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over water
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs defending short stretches of stream. Nests are mossy cups placed in crevices, on ledges, or even behind waterfalls where spray keeps the site damp. Likely monogamous during the breeding season, with both adults involved in rearing the young.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Vocalizations include thin, high-pitched tseeps and short, tinkling phrases that can be hard to hear over rushing water. Song is brief and subdued compared to many forest songbirds, often delivered from rocks or low perches near the stream.
