Ringed Kingfisher
NameRinged Kingfisher
Common NameRinged Kingfisher
Scientific NameMegaceryle torquata
FamilyAlcedinidae
Wingspan (cm)50
Length (cm)41
Weight (g)300
Plumage DetailsBoth sexes have a shaggy crest and a long, heavy black bill. Upperparts are slate-blue with fine white flecking, and a prominent white collar separates the head from the body. Underparts are rufous; males have a solid rufous belly, while females possess an additional slate-blue breast band across the rufous belly.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalization is a loud, rattling call, often given in flight or when disturbed, which can be quite distinctive and far-carrying.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland, coastal, forest, urban
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound from southern Texas (rarely) and Mexico south through Central and South America, extending to Tierra del Fuego.
Identifying FeaturesLarge size, Prominent shaggy crest, Heavy black bill, Slate-blue upperparts, White neck collar, Rufous underparts (solid in males, with blue band in females)
Description
The Ringed Kingfisher is a large, crested kingfisher found throughout the Neotropics. It is a powerful and agile diver, typically seen perched over water bodies, waiting to plunge headfirst to catch fish.
