Blue-breasted Bee-eater
NameBlue-breasted Bee-eater
Common NameBlue-breasted Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops variegatus
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)19
Weight (g)27
Plumage DetailsThis species features a green crown, a bright yellow throat, and a prominent black eye-stripe. A distinctive blue band crosses its breast, separating the yellow throat from its rufous-orange belly. Its back and wings are green.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include soft, trilling 'pruup' or 'prrrp' calls, often given in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across central Africa, from Nigeria eastward through Cameroon, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, and Uganda, extending south into Angola.
Identifying FeaturesYellow throat, Black eye-stripe, Distinct blue breast band, Rufous-orange belly, Green upperparts
Description
The Blue-breasted Bee-eater is a small, vibrantly colored bird known for its aerial insect-catching abilities. It typically perches conspicuously before sallying out to catch flying insects, often returning to the same perch.
