The rufous-tailed fantail is a species of bird in the family Rhipiduridae. It is endemic to Java in Indonesia. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Java, Indonesia
Typical Environment
Found in moist montane forests across the highlands of Java, favoring dense, mossy undergrowth and forest edges. It frequents stream gullies, ravines, and bamboo or vine tangles where insect activity is high. The species uses the understory to midstory and occasionally forages along shaded forest trails and clearings. It is typically absent from lowland forests and heavily degraded habitats.
Altitude Range
800–2400 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This energetic fantail constantly fans and flicks its bright rufous tail to flush insects from leaves. It often joins mixed-species flocks in montane forest undergrowth and along streams. Its sharp, chattering calls make it easier to detect than to see in dense cover.
Temperament
active and inquisitive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with agile sallies
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, often joining mixed-species foraging flocks. Pairs defend small territories during breeding. The nest is a small, neat cup placed low to mid-height on a horizontal branch or fork, often near water. Both adults participate in rearing the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of sharp chips, scolds, and thin, high trills delivered from low perches. Calls are brisk and persistent, especially when agitated or during foraging.
Plumage
Compact fantail with slate-brown to grayish upperparts and a bright rufous tail that is frequently fanned. Throat is whitish with fine dusky mottling, with paler belly and warm buff flanks. Rump and tail show rich rufous tones with a darker subterminal band.
Diet
Feeds primarily on small flying and crawling insects such as flies, beetles, moths, and ants, as well as spiders. It hawks prey in short sallies from low perches and also gleans from leaves and twigs. Tail-fanning and wing-flicking help flush hidden insects from the understory.
Preferred Environment
Forages in shaded understory and midstory of montane forest, along streams, ravines, and forest edges. Frequently works along trails, bamboo clumps, and vine tangles where insect densities are high.
