Brown-breasted Kingfisher
NameBrown-breasted Kingfisher
Common NameBrown-breasted Kingfisher
Scientific NameHalcyon smyrnensis
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)90
Plumage DetailsThe head, neck, and underparts are a rich reddish-brown, contrasting with a prominent white patch on the throat and upper breast. The back, rump, and tail are iridescent bright blue, while the primary flight feathers are black. The bill is large and vivid red, and the legs are also reddish.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a loud, far-carrying, rattling trill, often given in flight or from a high perch. It can also produce a series of shorter, sharper calls.
Primary Dietomnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, wetland, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across a vast area of Asia, extending from Turkey in the west, through the Indian subcontinent, and across Southeast Asia to the Philippines.
Identifying Featuresbright red bill, reddish-brown head and underparts, bright blue back and tail, white throat and breast patch, black primaries
Description
A striking medium-sized kingfisher, this species is characterized by its vibrant plumage and large, bright red bill. It is often observed perching conspicuously on wires or branches, patiently scanning for a diverse range of prey in various open habitats.
