They capture insects flying in the shade of the forest canopy by making aerial sallies from their perches.

They are very similar to the other drongos of the region but are somewhat smaller and compact with differences in the fork depth and the patterns of gloss on their feathers.

Specimens from southern India are however very similar in morphometrics to those from malayensis of Burma and the size variation may be clinal.

They actively forage for insects under the forest canopy by making aerial sallies, often returning to their favourite perches.

[6] These are aggressive and fearless birds, 24 cm in length, and will attack much larger species if their nest or young are threatened.