Blue-bearded Bee-eater
NameBlue-bearded Bee-eater
Common NameBlue-bearded Bee-eater
Scientific NameNyctyornis athertoni
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)32.5
Weight (g)75
Plumage DetailsPredominantly dull green plumage, paler on the belly, with a bright blue 'beard' on the throat and upper breast. The forehead and crown often have a blue tinge. It possesses a long, decurved black bill and pale yellowish-brown undertail coverts.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a deep, throaty, often repeated 'krr-r-r-r-r' or 'prr-r-r-r-r' call, sometimes described as a low, guttural trill.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, and parts of Indonesia (Sumatra).
Identifying FeaturesLarge size for a bee-eater, Overall dull green plumage, Long, decurved black bill, Distinctive blue 'beard' on throat and upper breast, Upright perching posture
Description
The Blue-bearded Bee-eater is a large, predominantly green bee-eater known for its distinctive blue 'beard' on the throat and upper breast. It typically perches upright on branches in forested areas, sallying out to catch flying insects.
