Swallow-tailed Bee-eater
NameSwallow-tailed Bee-eater
Common NameSwallow-tailed Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops hirundineus
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)28
Length (cm)21
Weight (g)21
Plumage DetailsThe plumage is predominantly bright green, with a striking yellow throat bordered by a narrow light blue band. A prominent black stripe runs through the eye, which is typically red. The rump and lower belly often show a bluish-green tint, and the tail is long and deeply forked, giving it its common name.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of soft, trilling 'prrrp' or 'prrr-prrrp' calls, often given while in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across sub-Saharan Africa, inhabiting a variety of open woodlands, savannas, and shrublands.
Identifying Featuresdeeply forked tail, bright green plumage, yellow throat with blue band, black eye stripe, red eyes
Description
This vibrantly colored bee-eater is characterized by its brilliant green plumage and a distinctive deeply forked tail. It is an agile aerial insectivore, often observed perching on branches from which it sallies forth to catch flying insects.
