These little birds are rarely larger than seven inches long, and the largest species grows to a maximum of eight inches long. Their tail makes up most of their body size, and in many species the tail is actually longer than the body.
While their body shape and size are relatively consistent across the various species, their colors can be quite different. Some species are gray and brown, others solid black, others bright yellow and brown, just to name a few.
Most of the different species of this bird live in similar habitats and ecosystems. Different species have different habitat preferences, but many species share similar habitats.
The vast majority of fantails primarily use tropical rainforest. They also live in swamps and mangroves, deserts, urban areas, and farms. Some species are pickier with their habitat, and only live in areas untouched by humans. Other species are more flexible with their ecosystems.
Researchers have not been able to thoroughly study every species of fantail, but they appear to be quite similar in behavior. They are quite active birds, and spend much of their time zipping around searching for food. While in flight, they fly fast, and change direction even faster! Most live alone, or in pairs.