Oriental Magpie-Robin
Copsychus saularis
Aves › Passeriformes › Muscicapidae › Copsychus
Conservation status: least_concern
This small passerine bird is notable for its male's black and white appearance and its long tail held upright when foraging. Its diet mainly includes insects and other invertebrates.
How To Identify
It is a medium-sized bird characterized by glossy black plumage heavily contrasted with crisp white patches on the wings and tail. Males often display noticeable yellow streaking, particularly during breeding.
Habitat
It typically lives in open woodlands, gardens, parks, and cultivated areas across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, preferring areas with scattered trees and shrubs.
Behaviour
This species is highly territorial and often perches conspicuously on exposed branches or rooftops, where it performs dramatic bowing displays and chases rivals with its distinctive long tail held upright.
Did You Know?
The Oriental Magpie-Robin is known for its remarkable vocal abilities and can mimic other bird species and sounds in its environment. Males are particularly talented singers and use their complex songs to establish territories and attract mates.
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