Square-tailed Drongo vs Fork-tailed Drongo

In short

The Square-tailed Drongo is less glossy with a more greenish or bronzy sheen compared to the Fork-tailed Drongo, which is known for its bold behavior and forked tail. The Fork-tailed Drongo is also more aggressive and often engages in kleptoparasitism.

Identification tips

• Look for the forked tail of the Fork-tailed Drongo.
• Observe the sheen: Square-tailed Drongo appears less glossy and more greenish or bronzy.
• Note behavior: Fork-tailed Drongo is more aggressive and bold.

Plumage

Square-tailed Drongo has a less glossy, more greenish or bronzy appearance, while the Fork-tailed Drongo is typically more shiny.

Behaviour

Fork-tailed Drongo is known for its bold behavior, including kleptoparasitizing other birds and even mammals like meerkats. In contrast, the Square-tailed Drongo is less bold and more retiring.