Little Bee-eater
NameLittle Bee-eater
Common NameLittle Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops pusillus
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)13
Plumage DetailsThis species has bright green upperparts, a vibrant yellow throat, and a distinctive black gorget (collar). Its underparts are rufous-orange, and it features a blue supercilium (eyebrow stripe) and a blue patch below the eye, contrasting with its black eye-stripe.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include soft, trilling 'prrrp' or 'sitt' calls, often given in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and south to Angola and South Africa.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Bright green upperparts, Yellow throat with black gorget, Blue supercilium and cheek patch, Rufous-orange belly, Pointed black bill
Description
The Little Bee-eater is a small, brightly colored bird found across sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its agile flight and ability to catch flying insects, particularly bees and wasps, often returning to a prominent perch to consume its prey.
