The streak-breasted fantail is a species of bird in the family Rhipiduridae. It is endemic to Indonesia, where it occurs in Seram Island. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Maluku Islands (Seram)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout primary and secondary moist forests of Seram, from lowlands to lower montane zones. It favors dense understory, forest edges, and riparian corridors where insects are abundant. The species tolerates lightly disturbed habitats and regenerating forest but remains most common in intact woodland. It typically forages within the lower to mid canopy and along shaded trails or stream margins.
Altitude Range
0–1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A lively insect-hunter, the streak-breasted fantail constantly fans and flicks its tail to flush prey from foliage. It often joins mixed-species flocks in forest understory and along edges. The species builds a neat cup nest bound with spider silk, typically suspended from a forked twig over shaded areas.
Temperament
active and restless
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallying flights
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly, in pairs, or small family groups, and commonly associates with mixed-species flocks. It constructs a small cup nest suspended in a fork, often near streams, using fine fibers and spider silk. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of sharp chips and high, thin whistles interspersed with rapid trills. Calls accelerate during foraging and when agitated, accompanied by conspicuous tail-fanning.
