White-throated Bee-eater
NameWhite-throated Bee-eater
Common NameWhite-throated Bee-eater
Scientific NameMerops albicollis
FamilyMeropidae
Wingspan (cm)27.5
Length (cm)27
Weight (g)24
Plumage DetailsFeatures a white throat with a prominent black gorget, a chestnut crown, and a black eye-stripe extending from the bill. The back and wings are green, transitioning to a bright blue rump and tail. The belly is pale yellow to whitish, and the central tail feathers are elongated and black.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations typically consist of soft, trilling 'prrrp' or 'prrrit' calls, often given while in flight or from a perch.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the Sahel region of Africa, from Senegal east to Ethiopia and Eritrea. It migrates south to the equatorial rainforest belt during the non-breeding season.
Identifying FeaturesWhite throat with black gorget, Chestnut crown, Black eye-stripe, Green upperparts, Blue rump and tail, Elongated central tail feathers, Slender, decurved black bill
Description
The White-throated Bee-eater is a slender, colorful bird known for its aerial hunting of insects. It features a distinctive white throat bordered by a black gorget and elongated central tail feathers. This species is often found in open woodlands and savannas, where it perches conspicuously to spot prey.
