Hair-crested Drongo vs Greater Racket-tailed Drongo

In short

The Greater Racket-tailed Drongo is distinguished by its unique elongated tail feathers with rackets at the tips, while the Hair-crested Drongo lacks these distinctive tail features. Both species are glossy black, but the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo often appears more iridescent. Vocalizations can be complex for both, but the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo is known for its mimicry skills.

Identification tips

1. Look for the racket-shaped tail feathers on the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo. 2. Note the size difference, with the Greater Racket-tailed being larger. 3. Observe the plumage iridescence; the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo is often more iridescent. 4. Listen for vocal mimicry, a trait more pronounced in the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo.

Size

The Greater Racket-tailed Drongo is generally larger than the Hair-crested Drongo.

Plumage

Both species are glossy black, but the Hair-crested Drongo has a less intense metallic hue with a more greenish tint. The Greater Racket-tailed Drongo's plumage often appears more iridescent.

Behaviour

Both species are active and agile, often seen sallying for insects. The Greater Racket-tailed Drongo is known for its mimicry and more varied vocal repertoire.

Habitat

Both species inhabit forests and forest edges, but the Greater Racket-tailed Drongo is more often found in dense forests.

Voice

The Greater Racket-tailed Drongo is a skilled mimic and has a more varied vocal repertoire compared to the Hair-crested Drongo.