Have You Seen King Crow?
Have you seen the Black Drongo? If you’re from the countryside, you may have seen the petite deep black bird engaged in mini sky dives, seemingly mocking gravity with its forked tail. But do not mistake the bird for a narcissist obsessed with its impressive abilities. The Black Drongo is self-assured and spends all its time flexing its muscles by swiftly snatching any insect that dares to invade its airspace. In Malayalam, we affectionately call it the “Aana Ranchi,” the literal translation being Elephant Snatcher. This title is a tribute to its fearlessness when confronting birds much larger in size. With the crow, the Drongo not only plays it cool, deftly sizing them up, but also boldly chases them away even in the absence of a provocation. The poor crow stands no chance against the mighty Drongo, rightly earning it the title of King Crow.
Have you seen this bird? It isn’t entirely black either. Under the bright Indian sun, it emanates an iridescent green glow, giving its body a lush, velvety sheen. You must have seen it! Its striking red eyes are impossible to miss. Sometimes, the drongo takes a break from its regular diet of ants, moths and beetles and indulges in a more sumptuous meal of lizards and even other small birds! And for dessert, you will see it taking to the nearest flower for fresh nectar. Oh, how grateful we must be for this. This is crucial for plant pollination!
Have I painted a picture of a violent, blood-hungry bird? Allow me to set the record straight— other birds actually look up to the drongo for protection. As the drongo chases away predators of any size, birds such as doves, babblers, bulbuls, and pigeons find safety and nest in the vicinity of this valiant protector. They rise earlier than their avian counterparts and roost later, diligently fulfilling their self-appointed duties.
In a heartwarming incident in July 2000 in Madhya Pradesh, a bulbul was observed feeding the chicks of a drongo couple. Perhaps an act of gratitude for the unwavering protection provided by the drongo?
Why don’t you go for a walk? And if you see a bird of these descriptions, bask in the comfort of knowing that Drongos are near- insects are controlled, birds are protected and more flowers bloom.
