Great-billed Kingfisher
NameGreat-billed Kingfisher
Common NameGreat-billed Kingfisher
Scientific NamePelargopsis melanorhyncha
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)32
Length (cm)36
Weight (g)175
Plumage DetailsThe head and underparts are pale buff to whitish, sometimes with a greyish wash on the crown. The back, wings, and tail are dark brown to blackish-brown, often with a subtle greenish or bluish sheen. The most prominent feature is its very large, entirely black bill.
Vocalization / CallKnown for loud, harsh, and often repeated calls, typically a series of 'kek-kek-kek' or 'ka-ka-ka' notes. These vocalizations can sometimes have a cackling or laughing quality.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatscoastal, forest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeThe Great-billed Kingfisher is endemic to the island of Sulawesi and its satellite islands in Indonesia, including the Sula Islands and Banggai Islands.
Identifying FeaturesMassive, entirely black bill, Pale buff/whitish head and underparts, Dark brown back and wings, Large size for a kingfisher
Description
This large kingfisher is characterized by its massive, entirely black bill and striking plumage contrast. It typically perches quietly in trees near water, hunting a variety of aquatic and terrestrial prey. It is endemic to Sulawesi and surrounding islands.
