Hook-billed Kingfisher
NameHook-billed Kingfisher
Common NameHook-billed Kingfisher
Scientific NameMelidora macrorrhina
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)25.5
Weight (g)95
Plumage DetailsThe Hook-billed Kingfisher has a dark blue crown with fine black scaling, a broad white supercilium, and a dark eye-stripe. Its back and wings are dark brown with prominent buff or ochre spots, while its underparts are whitish with brown barring on the flanks.
Vocalization / CallKnown for its distinctive, often mournful or whistling calls, typically given at night. Described as a series of descending whistles or a 'whoo-hoo-hoo' sound.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to New Guinea and some surrounding islands, including the Aru Islands and Yapen.
Identifying Featuresdistinctive hooked bill, dark blue crown with fine scaling, broad white supercilium, spotted brown back and wings, nocturnal habits
Description
This medium-sized kingfisher is characterized by its distinctive hooked bill and striking, spotted plumage. It is a shy, largely nocturnal forest dweller, often found perched quietly in the understory of lowland rainforests.
