Blue-headed Bee-eater
NameBlue-headed Bee-eater
Common NameBlue-headed Bee-eater
Scientific NameMeropogon muelleri
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)25
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsFeatures a bright blue crown and nape, a black mask extending through the eye, and a vivid red throat patch. The back, wings, and belly are a rich rufous-chestnut, contrasting with its bright blue rump and tail. The bill is long, slender, and black.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations are typically soft, trilling 'prrrp' or 'prr-prr-prr' calls, often given while in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeNative to West and Central Africa, its range includes countries such as Sierra Leone, Liberia, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Central African Republic, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Identifying FeaturesBright blue crown and nape, Black eye mask, Vivid red throat patch, Rufous-chestnut body, Long, slender black bill, Blue rump and tail
Description
The Blue-headed Bee-eater is a striking insectivorous bird found in African forests. It is characterized by its vibrant blue head, rufous body, and a distinctive red throat patch. This species typically perches upright, scanning for flying insects.
