**Ashy drongo (Dicrurus leucophaeus stigmatops)**

A widespread but elegant drongo species, found throughout much of Asia and easily recognizable by its distinctive coloration.

Context

A single individual photographed perching and hunting insects at Gunung Alab bird hide in Sabah, Borneo (Malaysia).

Field notes

Drongos are often seen near human settlements and open areas, where they scan their surroundings for insects. Food scraps and waste disposal areas can attract insects, providing drongos with additional hunting opportunities.

I have observed this species throughout Southeast Asia, and the Bornean endemic subspecies, stigmatops, pictured here, is noticeably different, with its overall grey coloration and prominent white eye-ring. Furthermore, unlike many other drongos, this subspecies is primarily associated with montane habitats.

Drongos are often seen around bird hides, feeding on mealworms and other live invertebrates provided daily by hide keepers. However, they can be highly territorial and may chase other species away, so their presence is not always welcome among bird photographers.

Key facts

The ashy drongo is widely distributed across Asia, from the Himalayas to Southeast Asia, with numerous subspecies recognized throughout its range. Some subspecies are migratory, whereas others are resident. A few subspecies, including stigmatops, are island endemics.

Like other drongos, it is primarily insectivorous, capturing prey both from vegetation and during short aerial sallies. It also occasionally consumes small fruits when available.

Drongos are renowned for their intelligence and aggressive behavior. Many species regularly harass much larger birds and predators, driving them away from their feeding and breeding territories.

Conservation

The ashy drongo is currently listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List and remains common throughout much of its extensive range.

In Borneo, the species is particularly associated with montane forests, where it continues to occur in good numbers within protected areas such as the Crocker Range, Kinabalu Park, and the Mount Trusmadi region.