Green Kingfisher
NameGreen Kingfisher
Common NameGreen Kingfisher
Scientific NameChloroceryle americana
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)21.5
Length (cm)20.5
Weight (g)43.5
Plumage DetailsMales have a dark metallic green head and upperparts, spotted with white on the wings and tail. A prominent white collar separates the dark head from a rufous (rusty orange) breast band. The belly is white with green spotting on the flanks. Females lack the rufous breast band, having two green-spotted breast bands instead. The bird in the image is a male.
Vocalization / CallA sharp, high-pitched 'tik' or 'chick' call, often repeated. Also produces a rattling call when agitated or in flight.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread from southern Texas and Arizona in the United States, through Mexico and Central America, and extensively across South America down to northern Argentina.
Identifying Featuressmall size, dark metallic green upperparts, white collar, long pointed bill, rufous breast band (male), white belly with green spotting, perches low over water
Description
A small, stocky kingfisher with a long, pointed bill, typically found near clear, slow-moving water. It perches low over the water, diving to catch small fish and aquatic insects. This species is known for its quick, darting flight.
