Blue-tailed Bee-eater
NameBlue-tailed Bee-eater
Common NameBlue-tailed Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops philippinus
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)25
Weight (g)47
Plumage DetailsPredominantly green plumage with a distinctive blue tail, especially the elongated central tail feathers. It has a black eye-stripe, a rufous throat, and a yellow chin, with a green crown and nape. Underparts are greenish-yellow.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a soft, liquid 'prruup' or 'prreep' often given in flight, and a chattering 'chip-chip-chip' when agitated or in flocks.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across South and Southeast Asia, including India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, and parts of China. It is migratory in some parts of its range.
Identifying FeaturesLong, decurved black bill, Predominantly green body plumage, Distinctive blue tail with elongated central feathers, Black eye-stripe, Rufous throat and yellow chin
Description
The Blue-tailed Bee-eater is a slender, brightly colored bird known for its aerial insect-catching skills. It typically perches conspicuously before sallying out to catch flying insects, often returning to the same perch.
