The Malaysian pied fantail is a species of bird in the fantail family. It is locally referred to as murai gila, literally "crazy thrush" in the Malay language. It was previously considered conspecific with the Philippine pied fantail.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs widely from the Malay Peninsula and southern Myanmar through Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam, and into Singapore, Brunei, and much of Indonesia including Sumatra, Borneo, Java, and Bali. It thrives in lowland habitats such as secondary forest, mangroves, river edges, plantations, and urban parks. It tolerates human-altered landscapes and is a common garden bird in many cities. Often found near water and in dense shrubbery where it can sally for flying insects.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 2/5
Locally called murai gila (“crazy thrush”) for its constant tail-fanning and restless behavior. It frequently forages near people in parks and gardens, often wagging and spreading its tail to flush insects. The species builds a delicate, cup-shaped nest bound with spider silk, sometimes placed over water. It was formerly lumped with the Philippine pied fantail but is now treated as a separate species.
Kaeng Krachan Nat'l Park - Thailand
Temperament
active and confiding
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or family groups, maintaining small territories. It constantly flicks and fans its tail while foraging, using it to flush insects. The nest is a small, neat cup bound with spider silk, often placed on a slender branch over water; both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A varied series of clear whistles, trills, and thin, tinkling notes delivered from exposed perches. Also gives sharp chips and scolding rattles when alarmed. Phrases are often repeated and can be persistent during the breeding season.
