European Bee-eater
NameEuropean Bee-eater
Common NameEuropean Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops apiaster
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)44
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsThis species exhibits vibrant plumage, featuring a bright yellow throat, a black eye-stripe, a chestnut crown and back, and a green body that transitions to blue on the rump and tail. The wings are a mix of chestnut, orange, and green, with a long, slender, slightly decurved black bill.
Vocalization / CallTheir call is a distinctive, liquid, rolling 'prruup' or 'prrrueet', often given in flight, which is quite characteristic and easily recognizable.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, parts of North Africa, and western Asia, migrating to tropical Africa and India for the winter.
Identifying FeaturesVibrant multi-colored plumage, Long, slender, decurved black bill, Black eye-stripe, Yellow throat, Chestnut crown and back, Green body and blue rump, Long central tail feathers
Description
The European Bee-eater is a strikingly colorful migratory bird known for its aerial hunting of insects, especially bees and wasps. They are highly social, often nesting in colonies in sandy banks and performing acrobatic flights to catch prey.
