The silhouette of the grey fantail (Rhipidura albiscapa) is recognizable by its long tail which can open in a fan - hence its name of 'fantail' in English - and its black, short and fine beak, characteristic of insectivores. There is no sexual dimorphism in this always moving and rarely silent species which does not hesitate to get close to humans and other animals to feed on the insects attracted or disturbed by their presence.