Stork-billed Kingfisher
NameStork-billed Kingfisher
Common NameStork-billed Kingfisher
Scientific NamePelargopsis capensis
FamilyHalcyonidae
Wingspan (cm)30
Length (cm)36.5
Weight (g)195
Plumage DetailsThe head and underparts are buffy-orange to yellowish-orange, contrasting sharply with the bright blue back, rump, and wings. The most prominent feature is its enormous, bright red bill, which often has a darker tip. Legs and feet are also red.
Vocalization / CallVocalizations include loud, far-carrying calls, often a series of harsh, cackling notes or a repeated 'kek-kek-kek' and 'pee-ow' sounds.
Primary Dietpiscivore
Primary Habitatswetland, forest
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across tropical Asia, ranging from India and Sri Lanka through Southeast Asia, including Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines.
Identifying FeaturesMassive, bright red bill, Large size for a kingfisher, Buffy-orange head and underparts, Bright blue back and wings, Red legs and feet
Description
The Stork-billed Kingfisher is a very large kingfisher known for its massive, bright red bill. It typically perches conspicuously over water, waiting to dive for fish and other aquatic prey. This striking bird is found in various wetland habitats across tropical Asia.
