The Sulawesi fantail is a species of bird in the family Rhipiduridae. It is endemic to Sulawesi in Indonesia. Its natural habitats are subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests and subtropical or tropical moist montane forests.
Region
Wallacea (Sulawesi, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occurs throughout Sulawesi and some adjacent satellite islands in moist lowland and montane forests. It favors shaded understory and midstory layers of primary rainforest but also uses mature secondary growth, forest edges, and riparian corridors. Birds are often seen near clearings and along trails where insects are more easily flushed. While most common in forested habitats, it can persist in selectively logged areas if understory structure remains intact.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This lively fantail constantly fans and flicks its tail to flush insects from foliage, then snaps them up in quick sallies. It readily joins mixed-species foraging flocks in Sulawesi’s forests. Several geographic forms occur across the island, and the species adapts well to both primary and well-vegetated secondary forest.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with frequent sallying flights
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs, often accompanying mixed-species flocks. Pairs defend small territories during breeding, building a neat cup nest suspended from a forked twig. Both parents participate in incubation and feeding of chicks.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A fast series of thin, high-pitched trills and chatters, interspersed with scolding calls. Song is delivered frequently while foraging and from low perches within the understory.
