Indian paradise flycatcher

The Indian paradise flycatcher is an enchanting, medium-sized bird widely distributed across Asia. With a stable global population, it has been classified as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List since 2004. This bird is native to the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and Myanmar.

Male Indian paradise flycatchers are particularly striking, featuring elongated central tail feathers and plumage in either black and rufous or pure white. Females, in contrast, sport rufous wings and a pronounced black head. These birds are adept hunters, catching insects in mid-air, typically under the cover of dense foliage.

Originally classified within the Muscicapidae family, the Indian paradise flycatcher is now placed in the Monarchidae family. It used to be grouped with Blyth's paradise flycatcher and the Amur paradise flycatcher under the collective title "Asian paradise flycatcher." Presently, three subspecies are recognized, distinguished primarily by variations in the males' plumage.

Adult flycatchers typically measure about 19–22 cm in length, with males characterized by their notable long tail feathers. Immature males resemble females but acquire their long tail feathers in their second or third year. Geographical variations influence male plumage, resulting in rufous and white forms in different regions. These birds are migratory, spending winters in tropical Asia, including southern India and Sri Lanka.

Known for their noisy calls, Indian paradise flycatchers are energetic hunters, primarily feeding on insects within the forest understorey. They breed from May to July, forming monogamous pairs. Both parents participate in nest building and caregiving, often choosing nesting sites near drongos to deter predators. Interestingly, interspecific feeding occurs, with Oriental white-eyes sometimes feeding paradise flycatcher chicks.