The red-tailed vanga is a species of bird in the family Vangidae. It is endemic to Madagascar.
Region
Madagascar
Typical Environment
Found across portions of eastern humid forests and northwestern dry deciduous forests in Madagascar. It uses primary forest as well as edges and secondary growth, moving through the understory and mid-story. The species tolerates some habitat disturbance and can occur near forest fragments if sufficient cover remains. It frequently associates with mixed-species foraging flocks, especially in the cooler parts of the day.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The red-tailed vanga is part of Madagascar’s remarkable vanga radiation, a group that evolved diverse bill shapes to exploit different niches. It often joins mixed-species flocks in forest understories, where its rusty tail is a useful field mark. Males can be a bit brighter and may fan the tail during displays. Despite a limited range, it adapts well to a variety of forest types, including some secondary growth.
Temperament
active and somewhat secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through understory
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species flocks while foraging. Pairs maintain small territories and communicate with soft calls. Nests are typically cup-shaped and placed in shrubs or small trees, with both parents participating in care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song consists of clear, mellow whistles and short phrases, delivered from mid-level perches. Calls include sharp chips and soft contact notes used while moving through dense foliage.
Plumage
Compact vanga with a distinctly rufous tail, contrasting with more subdued upperparts and paler underparts. Males are slightly brighter with cleaner contrasts; females are browner and duller overall. Bill is short and slightly hooked, typical of vangas.
Diet
Primarily feeds on insects and other small arthropods, gleaned from leaves, twigs, and bark. It probes clusters of foliage and occasionally makes short sallies to snatch prey. Small amounts of fruit may be taken opportunistically, especially when insect activity is low.
Preferred Environment
Forages in the understory and mid-canopy of humid and dry forests, along edges, and in secondary growth. Frequently accompanies mixed-species flocks where it exploits disturbed foliage and the movement of other birds to flush prey.
