Malachite Kingfisher
NameMalachite Kingfisher
Common NameMalachite Kingfisher
Scientific NameCorythornis cristatus
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)21
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsTypically, Malachite Kingfishers have iridescent blue upperparts, a white throat, and rufous underparts, with a short crest of black and blue feathers. Their bill and legs are bright red. The bird in the image is leucistic, displaying entirely white body feathers while retaining the characteristic orange bill and red legs.
Vocalization / CallA high-pitched, sharp 'chip' or 'tchip' call, often uttered in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsrivers, streams, lakes, ponds, marshes, estuaries
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, from Senegal and Gambia east to Ethiopia and Somalia, and south through central and eastern Africa to South Africa.
Identifying Featuressmall size, red bill, red legs, short crest (typically blue and black), iridescent blue upperparts (typically), rufous underparts (typically), leucistic (all-white) plumage (as seen in image)
Description
The Malachite Kingfisher is a small, brightly colored kingfisher typically found near water bodies across sub-Saharan Africa. It is known for its iridescent blue plumage, rufous underparts, and a distinctive red bill. This individual exhibits leucism, resulting in an all-white body plumage.
