Rainbow Bee-eater
NameRainbow Bee-eater
Common NameRainbow Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops ornatus
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)34
Length (cm)21.5
Weight (g)26.5
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly iridescent green, with a bright yellow throat, a black eye stripe bordered by a narrow blue-green line below, and a chestnut-brown crown. The rump is bright blue, and the tail is dark with distinctive elongated central streamers.
Vocalization / CallA soft, rolling, liquid 'prrrp' or 'prrit' call, often given in flight or while perched.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Australia, New Guinea, and some eastern Indonesian islands. It is migratory in southern Australia, moving north for the winter months.
Identifying FeaturesIridescent green plumage, Yellow throat, Black eye stripe with blue border, Long, slender, downcurved black bill, Elongated central tail streamers
Description
The Rainbow Bee-eater is a strikingly colorful bird known for its iridescent green body, vibrant facial markings, and agile flight. It is an aerial hunter, catching insects on the wing, and often perches prominently on branches or wires.
