Common Paradise-Kingfisher
NameCommon Paradise-Kingfisher
Common NameCommon Paradise-Kingfisher
Scientific NameTanysiptera galatea
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)22.5
Length (cm)40
Weight (g)50
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features a cobalt blue crown and back, a black eye-mask extending to the nape, and pure white throat and underparts. Its wings are also brilliant blue. The most distinctive feature is the pair of very long, white central tail streamers, which are bare for much of their length and end in paddle-shaped tips. The bill is a vibrant coral red.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations consist of a series of short, sharp, and rapidly repeated 'kew-kew-kew' or 'kree-kree-kree' notes.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound throughout New Guinea and its surrounding islands, including the Aru Islands, Bismarck Archipelago, and some islands in the Solomon Sea.
Identifying FeaturesBright red bill, Cobalt blue crown and back, Black eye-mask, White underparts, Two greatly elongated white central tail streamers with spatulate tips
Description
This striking kingfisher is characterized by its brilliant blue upperparts, white underparts, and a distinctive bright red bill. It is most notable for its two greatly elongated white central tail feathers, which are bare-shafted and spatulate at the tips. It typically perches quietly in the understory of tropical forests, hunting for invertebrates.
