Philippine pied fantail

The Philippine pied fantail (Rhipidura nigritorquis) is a medium-size species of bird in the family Rhipiduridae endemic to the Philippines. It was formerly considered conspecific with the Malaysian pied fantail.



Description
This bird is of moderate size and has a long tail. It is commonly found in wooded areas and open spaces in lowland regions. Its upper body is a sooty gray color, while its underbody is white. It features a black band on its chest and a black face, with a distinct white throat and brow. It frequently moves its tail from side to side, displaying its white tips. The bird's song is composed of diverse, somewhat unmusical, and scratchy whistled phrases.

Taxonomy
Other names by which this bird is referred to are Maria Capra (Philippines), and tarerekoy (Visayas, Philippines).

Distribution and habitat
The Philippine pied fantail is endemic throughout the Philippines. Its natural habitat is subtropical or tropical moist lowland forests.

Relationship with other birds
It is common to the Philippines, mostly in the Mindanao and raises its tail to attract females. They are mostly black and white in color and normal in shape. It flies together/commonly with Eurasian tree sparrows and chestnut munias.