Description The Spangled Drongo measures 28cm - 33cm. It has glossy black plumage, with iridescent blue-green spots (spangles) and blood red eyes. Sexes are similar, but the female is slightly smaller. Occasional white spotting can be seen on the upper wings of both sexes. The long, forked 'fish' tail is characteristic, and distinguishes the Spangled Drongo from other similar-sized black birds. Young birds are more sooty black without the spangles and the eye is brown. The Spangled Drongo is noisy and conspicuous, usually active, and frequently aggressive to other species. The voice comprises a variety of sounds, including some distinctive metallic notes like a stretched wire being plucked, and occasional mimicry of other bird species. Distribution and Habitat Spangled Drongos are found throughout northern and eastern Australia. They prefer the wetter forests, but can also be found in other woodlands, mangroves and parks. Birds tend to avoid more dense forest types and rainforest interiors. Birds are more common in the north, and are often seen either singly or in pairs. Through its range, the Spangled Drongo shows different migratory habits. Northern populations tend to be more migratory than southern ones. The movements are somewhat mysterious. Individuals from the northern areas of Western Australia and the Northern Territory migrate northwards to Indonesia, while the eastern Australian birds migrate to New Guinea. Some drongos in the south-east and central-east, however, remain in the same area or head south, occasionally turning up in Tasmania. The species is also found in New Guinea and eastern Indonesia. Closely related species occur through south-east Asia to India, China, and the Philippines and on some south-west Pacific islands. Food and Feeding The Spangled Drongo is usually observed perched on an open branch or telegraph wire, where it awaits a passing insect. Once seen, its prey is pursued in an acrobatic display, and is caught in the drongos slightly hooked bill. The Spangled Drongo then returns to its perch to eat its victim. The prey is guided into the bill with the assistance of sensitive, long, wire-like rictal bristles bordering the bill. Insects are also taken from foliage and from under bark; fruit and nectar also form part of its diet. Breeding Spangled Drongos breed from September to March, and normally have only one clutch per season. Both adults participate in building the nest, which is a simple, shallow cup of twigs, vine tendrils and grasses, held together with spider web. It is placed in a horizontal fork of tree, normally toward outer edges and up to 10m - 20m above the ground. Both sexes incubate the three to five eggs and care for the young. Spangled Drongos actively defend the nest against intruders. Again not the best picture, Light was against me, 1st time I've seen one of these birds Thanks for looking comments/ critique welcome Stuart