Sacred Kingfisher
NameSacred Kingfisher
Common NameSacred Kingfisher
Scientific NameTodiramphus sanctus
FamilyHalcyonidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)45
Plumage DetailsThe Sacred Kingfisher has iridescent blue-green upperparts, wings, and tail. It features a broad white collar around the neck, buff to cinnamon underparts, and a dark eye-stripe extending from the bill to the nape. The crown is dark with a greenish tinge.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a distinctive, loud, and repeated 'kek-kek-kek' or 'ki-ki-ki', often given in flight or from a prominent perch.
Primary Dietcarnivore
Primary Habitatsforest, wetland, urban, coastal
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across Australia, New Zealand, New Guinea, and various islands in the Pacific Ocean. Southern populations migrate north to northern Australia and New Guinea during the southern winter.
Identifying Featuresblue-green upperparts, white collar, buff underparts, dark eye-stripe, long, stout black bill
Description
The Sacred Kingfisher is a medium-sized kingfisher known for its striking blue-green plumage and white collar. It is a versatile hunter, often observed perching quietly before diving to catch a variety of prey. This species is found in diverse habitats, from coastal mangroves to urban parks.
