Belted Kingfisher
NameBelted Kingfisher
Common NameBelted Kingfisher
Scientific NameMegaceryle alcyon
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)53
Length (cm)31.5
Weight (g)155
Plumage DetailsBoth sexes have a slate blue-gray back, a prominent shaggy crest, and a white collar. Their underparts are white with a broad rusty band across the chest. Females are distinguished by an additional rusty band across the belly and rusty flanks, while males only have the single chest band.
Vocalization / CallA loud, distinctive, and often repeated rattling call, frequently given in flight. It can sound like a dry, harsh, or machine-gun-like rattle.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across most of North America, from Alaska and Canada south through the United States. Winters in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Identifying FeaturesShaggy, spiky crest, Large, dagger-like bill, Blue-gray back and head, White collar and underparts with rusty chest band, Female has additional rusty belly band, Distinctive rattling call, Diving fishing behavior
Description
The Belted Kingfisher is a striking, medium-sized bird with a shaggy crest and a long, heavy bill. It is often seen perched conspicuously over water, diving headfirst to catch fish. Females are more colorful than males, possessing an additional rusty band across the belly.
