kingfisher

1. Bird Name
Known in English as the Kingfisher, this vibrant bird’s Latin name is the Alcedo atthis for the common or river kingfisher species.

2. Appearance
The Kingfisher showcases an amazing array of electric-blue feathers on its upper parts, offset by its chestnut underparts. Its long, sharp bill – perfectly designed for catching fish – comes in striking black for males and includes an orange base for females. It has a compact body and short legs. Its large head and keen, all-black eyes lend a distinctive, alert look. Additionally, these birds exhibit a white patch on the throat and neck, adding to their dramatic appearance.

3. Size
Kingfishers are not large birds, they average around 17-19 cm in length (approximately 6.7-7.5 inches). Their wingspan is moderate; typically between 24-26 cm (9-10 inches). The Kingfisher’s weight can vary from 34 to 46 grams.

4. Habitat & Distribution
Kingfishers have a widespread distribution, and can be found across Europe, Asia, and North Africa. They are familiar sights in woodlands, near lakes, rivers, or coastal areas. They favor clear, slow-moving water where they can easily spot their prey.

5. Interesting Facts
Kingfishers’ vibrant color is not from pigment, but rather from the structure of their feathers which reflects light.
Kingfishers have excellent vision with the ability to see colors even in the ultraviolet range.
The bird is sometimes known as the “halcyon” because it was once believed to have the power to calm the waves in the winter solstice.

6. Diet
Despite their name, not all kingfishers eat fish. Those that do, like the River Kingfisher, feed predominantly on fish and small aquatic invertebrates.

7. Behavior & Sounds
These are solitary birds outside of the mating season and are highly territorial. Kingfishers are well-known for their unique hunting style – they perch on a branch overlooking the water, dive headfirst to catch their meal, and return to their perch to stun the prey before swallowing it whole. The call of the Kingfisher is a high-pitched, short whistle-like sound.

8. Conservation Status
Many species of Kingfisher are on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, although the common kingfisher is currently classified as being of “Least Concern”, despite facing habitat degradation and water pollution challenges.

9. Lifespan
Kingfishers have fairly short lifespans, often only living around 2 years in the wild, although some have been known to live up to 15 years in captivity

10. Additional Notes
In some cultures, Kingfishers are considered symbols of peace, prosperity, and love.
Despite their small size, Kingfishers play a crucial role in the ecosystem by controlling the population of fish and insects.
Kingfishers are also known as the “jewel of the water” thanks to their stunning coloration. This bird holds a special place in traditional folklore and art – everything from ancient Greek mythology to Japanese ukiyo-e art.