European Bee-eater
Image: <a href="//commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/User:El_Golli_Mohamed" title="User:El Golli Mohamed">El Golli Mohamed</a> (CC BY-SA 4.0)
NameEuropean Bee-eater
Common NameEuropean Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops apiaster
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsFeatures a chestnut crown and nape, a prominent black eye-stripe, and a bright yellow throat bordered by a thin black line. The back is golden-brown, transitioning to a turquoise-blue rump and tail, with green wings and blue-green underparts.
Vocalization / CallA distinctive, liquid, rolling 'prruup' or 'prrree' call, often given in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, grassland, riverine areas, farmland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, parts of western and central Asia, and northern Africa; migrates to winter in tropical Africa and parts of India.
Identifying Featuresvibrant multi-colored plumage, long, slender, decurved black bill, black eye-stripe, bright yellow throat, pointed wings, slightly elongated central tail feathers
Description
This vibrantly colored bird is characterized by its slender body, long, decurved bill, and striking plumage. It is an agile aerial hunter, often seen catching insects on the wing from an exposed perch.
