The Indian Paradise Flycatcher: A Medium-sized and Colorful Bird of Asia

The Indian paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi) is a species of bird in the family Monarchidae, which includes the monarch flycatchers. It is native to the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and Myanmar, where it is widely distributed. As the global population is considered stable, it has been listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List since 2004. The Indian paradise flycatcher is a beautiful and colorful bird, with a glossy black head, a black crown and crest, and a black bill. The males have elongated central tail feathers, and a black and rufous plumage in some populations, while others have white plumage. The females are short-tailed with rufous wings and a black head.

The Indian paradise flycatcher feeds mainly on insects, which it captures in the air often below a densely canopied tree. It also eats some fruits, berries, buds, and flowers. It forages in flocks, often hanging upside down from branches to reach the food3. It is not very vocal, but occasionally gives cooing whistles. It also has a distinctive call, sounding like “tswit-tswit” or “ti-ti-ti”.

The Indian paradise flycatcher breeds from April to July, depending on the region. It builds a cup-shaped nest in a tree or a shrub, using grass, moss, lichen, and feathers. It lays four to six eggs, which are pale blue with reddish-brown spots. The female incubates the eggs for about 12 days, while the male feeds her. The chicks are fed by both parents, and fledge after about 15 days.

The Indian paradise flycatcher has a special place in the culture and folklore of some regions where it lives. In India, it is the state bird of Madhya Pradesh, and it is called Haroli or Hariyal in Marathi. It is also associated with the legend of Guru Padmasambhava, who is said to have transformed into a paradise flycatcher to fly to Tibet and spread Buddhism. In Nepal, it is called Nilkantha, which means “blue throat”, and is believed to be a manifestation of Lord Shiva.

The Indian paradise flycatcher is a remarkable bird that deserves our attention and admiration. It is a symbol of nature’s diversity and beauty, and a source of inspiration and joy for many people. We hope that this article has given you some interesting information and insights about this amazing bird.