Common Kingfisher
Image: <a rel="nofollow" class="external text" href="http://photo-natur.de">Andreas Trepte</a> (CC BY-SA 2.5)
NameCommon Kingfisher
Common NameCommon Kingfisher
Scientific NameAlcedo atthis
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)16.5
Weight (g)32.5
Plumage DetailsAdults have brilliant iridescent blue-green upperparts, a rufous-orange breast and belly, and a white patch on the side of the neck. The head is blue-green with fine blue spots, and it has a long, pointed black bill. Females often have a reddish base to the lower mandible.
Vocalization / CallA short, sharp, high-pitched whistle, often repeated, typically described as 'chee-kee' or 'chick-chick'. It is usually heard in flight.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsrivers, streams, lakes, canals, ponds, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, Asia, and parts of North Africa. Its range extends from Ireland and Spain in the west, across central Europe and Asia to Japan, and south to parts of India and Southeast Asia.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent blue-green back and crown, Rufous-orange underparts, Long, pointed black bill, White neck patch, Short tail, Diving hunting behavior
Description
The Common Kingfisher is a small, brightly colored bird known for its iridescent blue-green upperparts and rufous-orange underparts. It is typically found near clear, slow-moving water, where it perches and dives headfirst to catch small fish and aquatic insects.
