The world of birds is astonishingly diverse and fascinating, with countless unique species that captivate the imagination of birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike. One such species is the White-bellied Drongo (Dicrurus caerulescens), an intriguing bird found primarily in South Asia. In this article, we will delve into the taxonomy, physical features, habitat, diet, breeding and nesting habits, and its presence in Nepal.
Taxonomy and Physical Features
The White-bellied Drongo belongs to the family Dicruridae and the genus Dicrurus. It was first described by Carl Linnaeus in 1766 as a member of the Corvus genus before being reclassified to its current genus. This bird is closely related to other drongo species such as Ashy Drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus) and Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus), which share some similar traits.
The White-bellied Drongo is a medium-sized bird with a distinct silhouette — it has a forked tail that immediately sets it apart from its relatives. Adult birds have a length of around 23-28 cm and weigh between 42 and 55 grams. It has a primarily glossy blue-black plumage with a striking white belly patch that gives it its name. The iris of this bird is red, adding another intriguing feature to its appearance.
Habitat and Diet
White-bellied Drongos are primarily found in dry deciduous forests in South Asia, ranging from India to Sri Lanka. They also occupy scrublands, savannas, agricultural areas, and even human settlements such as parks or gardens. This species has adapted well to disturbed habitats and has a wide distribution throughout its range.
This energetic aerial hunter feeds mainly on insects like grasshoppers, butterflies, beetles, and termites. Catching their prey mid-flight or sometimes picking them off from the ground or vegetation, White-bellied Drongos are efficient predators. Additionally, they display kleptoparasitism, stealing food from other birds such as babblers, warblers, and other drongos.
Breeding and Nesting
The breeding season of the White-bellied Drongo coincides with the monsoon in its range, usually lasting from March to August. They build cup-shaped nests made of twigs at a height of about 3-10 meters in trees or shrubs. Both males and females participate in nest building, incubation, and feeding the chicks. Clutch size varies between 2 to 4 eggs that are incubated for about 14-17 days before hatching. The hatchlings fledge after approximately 16-19 days, closely watched by their vigilant parents that aggressively protect their nesting territory.
Presence in Nepal
In Nepal, the White-bellied Drongo is found in the lowland Terai region as well as the Siwalik hills in the Churia range. They are most abundant in Sal (Shorea robusta) forests and mixed deciduous forests but can also be seen in areas with sparse tree cover or human settlements.
In conclusion, the White-bellied Drongo is a fascinating bird species with striking physical features and intriguing behavior that draws the attention of bird enthusiasts across South Asia. For anyone exploring the diverse avifauna of Nepal, encountering this charismatic drongo can be an unforgettable experience.