Malachite Kingfisher
Image: Daryl de Beer (cc-by-nc)
NameMalachite Kingfisher
Common NameMalachite Kingfisher
Scientific NameCorythornis cristatus
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)25
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)15
Plumage DetailsThe plumage features iridescent malachite-blue upperparts, including the crown, back, and wings. It has a white throat and collar, with rich rufous-orange underparts. The bill is bright red-orange, and there are small white spots on the sides of the neck.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a high-pitched, sharp 'chip' or 'tchip', often given in flight or when disturbed.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatsrivers, streams, lakes, ponds, marshes, wetlands
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, extending from Senegal and Gambia in the west to Ethiopia and Somalia in the east, and south to South Africa.
Identifying Featuressmall size, iridescent blue upperparts, rufous underparts, bright red-orange bill, white throat patch, short tail
Description
The Malachite Kingfisher is a small, brightly colored bird known for its iridescent blue plumage and rufous underparts. It is typically found near freshwater bodies, perching low over the water before diving headfirst to catch small fish and aquatic invertebrates.
