The Grey Fantail is a small species of songbird native to Australia, the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia.
Several subspecies of this insectivorous species are recognized, distinguished by slight differences in plumage as well as range. Our Birdorable bird, with its dark tail and buffy underparts is based on nominate Rhipidura albiscapa albiscapa which breeds on Tasmania and the Bass Strait Islands. Across all subspecies, males and females look alike.
Grey Fantails feed primarily on insects, as well as spiders, small lizards, and sometimes fruits or seeds. They are found in a variety of wooded habitats and seem well-adapted to live in areas of human disturbance like the edges of farmland, parks, and the like. Their population is stable and they are not considered to be vulnerable to extinction with a conservation status of "Least Concern".
2022 Bonanza Bird #3: Grey Fantail
Today a cute little songbird from Australia and nearby island nations joins Birdorable! Welcome the Grey Fantail to the family!
Grey Fantails are insectivores. They include flashing their tails as part of their ... more
