Birds belonging to the Monarchidae family, which includes the Indian paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi), are considered a specialty. Its widespread distribution belies its native range of the Indian subcontinent, Central Asia, and Myanmar. Since 2004, the IUCN Red List has placed it in the “Least Concern” category due to the constant global population. An attractive and multi-hued bird, the Indian paradise flycatcher has a glossy black beak, a black head, a black crown, and a black bill. In certain populations, the males are white-plumed, while in others, they have lengthened central tail feathers and rufous or black plumage. The females have a black beak, rufous wings, and a short tail.
Insects are the primary food source for the Indian paradise flycatcher, which catches them while flying, frequently beneath a thickly treed canopy. Some berries, fruits, buds, and flowers are also in its diet. It searches for food in groups, frequently dangling from branches to get to it. While it doesn’t make many noises, it does make little whistle sounds now and again. Calling it a “tswit-tswit” or “ti-ti-ti” is another way to identify it.
Indian paradise flycatchers typically lay their eggs between the months of April and July. It uses grass, lichen, moss, and feathers to construct a cup-shaped nest in a shrub or tree. It lays 4-6 eggs that are somewhat blue in color and speckled with reddish-brown markings. During the 12 days while the male is feeding the female, the female is incubating the eggs. Both parents contribute to the chicks’ nutrition until they reach the 15-day fledge mark.
Some of the places where the Indian paradise flycatcher is native have a very unique cultural and folkloric significance. It goes by the names Haroli and Hariyal in Marathi, and it is the official bird of Madhya Pradesh in India. Guru Padmasambhava, who is believed to have become a paradise flycatcher in order to travel to Tibet and spread Buddhism, is also linked to this. It is thought to be an incarnation of Lord Shiva in Nepal and is known as Nilkantha, meaning “blue throat” in Nepali.
An incredible bird deserving of our respect and awe is the Indian paradise flycatcher. For many, it represents the rich variety and exquisite beauty of nature, and it brings them happiness and inspiration. We trust that you have gained some intriguing knowledge and understanding of this magnificent bird from this essay.
