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Spangled DrongoDicrurus braceatus Size - 28-32cm. Easily identifiable with a long, outcurved, forked tail, iridescent black plumage and blue-green iridescent ‘spangles’ on the chest. A heavy bill with bristles around the base and a blood red eye. Breeds mainly Oct - Jan. Nest is a neat, hammock-like basket constructed of vine tendrils and hanging in a slender fork in dense foliage, often very high and difficult to see. Eggs 3-5. Both adults incubate, brood and feed the young. A common widespread resident, mostly in lowland rainforest and adjoining open forests, deciduous vine scrubs, urban areas and mangroves. Many overwinter here but a large spring/autumn migration also occurs. Usually seen singly or in pairs, but can be in flocks when migrating. Spangled Drongo will sit on open perches and dash out to catch insects, often with an aerobatic flight display, and taking the insect back to the perch. Will also forage on trunks, limbs and foliage for insects. They will sit flicking the tail open and shut and are loud and gregarious, calling in a variety of harsh metallic notes. Also mimic. Regularly seen in the garden of Red Mill House and in the village of Daintree.
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