SLATY BACKED FORKTAIL

BURUNG MURAI CEGAR BERJALUR

Slaty-backed Forktail (Enicurus schistaceus)

Cameron Highland

The Slaty-backed Forktail is a slim, medium-sized bird found in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, including the Himalayas, Southeast Asia, and southern China. It is often seen near fast-flowing streams and rivers, where it hunts small invertebrates by hopping among rocks or flying over the water.

This bird measures about 22–25 cm in length and weighs between 26–38 grams. Its plumage is a striking mix of slate-gray, black, and white. It has a slate-gray forehead, crown, and mantle, a black throat, and a narrow white stripe across its face. The tail is long and deeply forked, with black and white bands, giving it a distinctive appearance.

The Slaty-backed Forktail breeds between February and July, laying 3–4 eggs in nests built near water. Both sexes participate in incubating the eggs. It is generally solitary but may be seen in pairs or family groups during the breeding season.

This bird is classified as "Least Concern" on the IUCN Red List, 

IUCN Red List - Least Concern (LC)