American Pygmy Kingfisher
NameAmerican Pygmy Kingfisher
Common NameAmerican Pygmy Kingfisher
Scientific NameChloroceryle aenea
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)22
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)14
Plumage DetailsIridescent dark green on the crown, nape, back, and wings, with small white spots on the wings. The throat and belly are white, while the breast and flanks are a rich rufous-orange. Males have a narrow rufous breast band, while females have two green breast bands.
Vocalization / CallA weak, high-pitched 'tic' or 'tseet', often given in flight.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in Central and South America, from southern Mexico south through Central America to northern Bolivia and central Brazil.
Identifying Featuresvery small size, iridescent dark green upperparts, rufous breast and flanks, white belly, long, pointed black bill, short tail
Description
This tiny kingfisher is characterized by its iridescent dark green upperparts and rich rufous underparts. It is a shy bird, often found perched low over slow-moving water, from which it dives to catch small aquatic prey.
