Paradise Flycatcher

Female Paradise Flycatcher

The name says it all - Asian Paradise Flycatcher, of course, catches flies. It is native to Asia. And it looks as if it is from the paradise, especially the male ones. You will see this bird easily in the green background with its reddish-brown body (female and young males) or white body (adult male). But the most significant feature is their long tails trailing behind them. They also have a black head and a crest. Once we manage to take our eyes off the tails and stop being in owe of these birds, we notice that the actual body is very very like a bulbul - in size and shape.

These like to remain close to water sources, and these are not common garden birds - you will need to go out of your way to catch sight of these. I have seen these mainly around Matthur lake, but Tunga river is also a good place to catch sight of. And they are quick and not at all patient - I have seen these on bushes or small trees, flying to and fro catching their prey.

Scientific name for this bird is Terpsiphone paradisi.