European Bee-eater
Image: altagray (cc-by-nc)
NameEuropean Bee-eater
Common NameEuropean Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops apiaster
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)38
Length (cm)28
Weight (g)52
Plumage DetailsThis species exhibits vibrant plumage with a chestnut crown and mantle, a bright yellow throat, and a prominent black eye-stripe. The body is predominantly green, with blue-green underparts and a blue-green rump and tail. The wings show a mix of chestnut, green, and blue.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a distinctive, liquid, rolling 'prruup' or 'prrreee' call, often given repeatedly while in flight or perched.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsopen woodland, grassland, farmland, river valleys, coastal areas
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across southern Europe, parts of North Africa, and western Asia, migrating to sub-Saharan Africa and parts of India for the winter months.
Identifying Featuresbrightly colored plumage, long, slender, decurved black bill, black eye-stripe, yellow throat, chestnut crown and mantle, elongated central tail feathers (adults)
Description
The European Bee-eater is a strikingly colorful migratory bird, known for its iridescent plumage and graceful aerial hunting. It primarily preys on flying insects, especially bees and wasps, which it catches in flight.
