Distinctive metallic call

Australia’s only drongo, the Spangled Drongo Dicrurus bracteatus is black with iridescent plumage and a characteristic forked tail. Their varied calls have a brassy or metallic note that can also be melodic, and mimic the sounds they hear. Drongos arrive in Queensland in late spring and breed high in trees, produce three to five young and leave in late summer the following year. Spangled Drongos build their nests in trees all along the banks of Enoggera Creek. They tear at bark to prey on insects and spiders, also catching insects on the wing. Their cup-shaped nests are constructed from the tendrils of vines woven together in a sturdy basket. Drongos can be quite aggressive towards other birds including raptors.

Young Spangled Drongo Dicrurus bracteatus on nest constructed by the adult with the tendrils of vines in January 2024. Photo: Damien Mckenzie

Spangled Drongo Dicrurus bracteatus adult with young on nest at Enoggera Creek. Photo: Damien Mckenzie