Black Drongo \ Dicrurus macrocercus **
The Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus) is a rare vagrant in the United Arab Emirates, with only 16 recorded sightings between 1986 and 2021. This sleek bird, often mistaken for being entirely black, actually has a dark metallic blue sheen that becomes visible under good lighting. Native to South and Southeast Asia, it thrives in open farmlands, woodlands, and urban areas. While it is not a regular migrant to the UAE, an exceptional record in 2022 saw a pair successfully breeding in Dubai’s Mushrif Park, marking the first documented breeding event for the species in the Arabian Peninsula. The presence of this highly adaptable bird in the UAE suggests that occasional wanderers may arrive, possibly influenced by shifting climatic conditions or habitat availability. Though rare, the Black Drongo's appearance highlights the dynamic nature of bird movements in the region, making it an exciting find for birdwatchers and ornithologists alike.
NOT EVALUATED | DATA DEFICIENT | LEAST CONCERN** | NEAR THREATENED | VULNERABLE | ENDANGERED | CRITICALLY ENDANGERED | EXTINCT IN THE WILD | EXTINCT |
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NE | DD | LC | NT | VU | EN | CR | EW | EX |