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What is a Kingfisher?

R. Britton
R. Britton

A kingfisher is a small- to medium-sized bird and includes the kookaburras. With around 80 species and a number of subspecies found throughout the world, kingfishers are believed to have originated in the northern hemisphere, but have now been naturalized across the globe. Generally all kingfishers share some similar characteristics, despite differences in behavior, feeding, size, and color. The main similarity is the head, which is large and somewhat exaggerated in comparison to the body. The beaks of the kingfishers are long, sharp, and streamlined, allowing for quicker movement through the air when striking at prey.

In the United Kingdom, there is just one native species, which is the Common Kingfisher. This species can also be found across the rest of Europe, parts of northern Africa, Japan, China, Thailand, India, and the Australasian islands. These birds are among the most widespread of the kingfishers, with a total of seven localized subspecies across the wide native range. The biggest variation among these birds is difference in plumage color; feeding and behavior tend to remain the same.

Kingfishers have large heads with long, sharp beaks.
Kingfishers have large heads with long, sharp beaks.

The plumage of this species is iridescent, meaning that instead of the colors being a uniform, pigment, the plumage — up close — is actually quite dull. In the sun light, the iridescent plumage appears to be bright and vibrant. The Common Kingfisher is characterized by its vivid cobalt blue and orange plumage; shades vary slightly among the subspecies, through a range of blues and greens.

There are ten different kingfisher species in Australia.
There are ten different kingfisher species in Australia.

This species does not generally migrate except in areas where winter temperatures result in waterways freezing. Since they mainly eat small fish, if the water freezes they cannot reach the food and are forced to migrate to warmer regions. Nesting in hollows and cavities along the banks of rivers and streams, these birds prefer to remain very close to a stable food supply.

Kingfishers feed on small fish.
Kingfishers feed on small fish.

One of the few species native to North America is the Belted Kingfisher. It has blue and white plumage, and, similar to its European cousin, feeds mainly on small fish. Unlike most other kingfisher species, these birds do not perch on overhanging branches before diving to catch prey, but instead, hover above the water.

Australia has ten different kingfisher species, which vary hugely, from the little kingfisher, which measures just 5 inches (12 cm), to the laughing kookaburra, which is the largest kingfisher in the world, measuring 18 inches (46 cm). Across the large number of different species, these birds inhabit a wide variety of terrains, from forests to open meadowlands. Some species, such as the Red-backed Kingfisher, native to Australia, live in arid and semi-arid regions. Despite the name, not all species rely on fish as their primary food source. Many species eat small mammals, reptiles, and insects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a kingfisher and where can it be found?

Kingfishers are a group of small to medium-sized, brightly colored birds belonging to the family Alcedinidae. They are known for their expert fishing abilities. There are over 90 species of kingfishers, found all around the world, particularly in tropical regions. They inhabit areas near rivers, lakes, and coasts, with the greatest diversity in the Australasian region.

What do kingfishers eat and how do they catch their food?

Kingfishers primarily feed on a diet of fish, which they catch by diving into water from a perch. They have excellent vision, allowing them to accurately judge the position of their prey. Some species also eat crustaceans, insects, and small amphibians. Their hunting technique involves speed and precision, making them formidable predators in their habitats.

How do kingfishers adapt to their aquatic environments?

Kingfishers are well-adapted to life near water. Their bodies are streamlined for efficient diving, and they have special nictitating membranes that cover their eyes like goggles when they enter the water. Additionally, their beaks are usually long and pointed to help them catch and hold onto slippery fish, and their strong legs and toes aid in perching close to water.

Are kingfishers solitary or social birds?

Kingfishers are generally solitary birds, especially when it comes to hunting, as they are territorial and will defend their feeding grounds vigorously. However, some species may be seen in pairs or small family groups, particularly during the breeding season. Their solitary nature ensures less competition for food resources within their habitats.

What is the conservation status of kingfishers?

The conservation status of kingfishers varies by species. While many species are considered to be of Least Concern by the IUCN, some are threatened or endangered due to habitat loss, pollution, and climate change. For instance, the Guam kingfisher is currently listed as Critically Endangered, with conservation efforts in place to protect these vulnerable species.

How do kingfishers reproduce and raise their young?

Kingfishers typically mate for a season and are known for their elaborate courtship displays. They nest in burrows dug into riverbanks or termite nests. Females lay between two to ten eggs, which both parents incubate. After hatching, the chicks are fed a steady diet of regurgitated fish until they fledge and learn to hunt for themselves.

Discussion Comments

StingAuera

The problem is, Kingfishers vary in appearance, so it is hard to identify one for sure. At the rate that people are bringing non-native species into the United States, I wouldn't doubt if the Kingfisher is becoming more prevalent-even in South Florida. Also, following hurricane Andrew, from a few years ago, some birds escaped from sanctuaries, if I remember correctly.

Jewellian
@SpecialBug, the article says that the Kingfisher is now "naturalized around the globe", so I suppose it is possible. But, the article also mentions freezing waterways. So I also would be interested in knowing if there is anyone out there that has spied a Kingfisher in Florida, or even in the southern portion of the United States.
SpecialBug
Lately, I have been seeing a bird in South Florida that resembles a Kingfisher. That is what I have been calling it anyway. I had never seen the bird in the area until recently. It resembled a bird that I had seen in the local zoo here. Can anyone confirm that the Kingfisher is native to Florida?
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    • Kingfishers have large heads with long, sharp beaks.
      By: andrewsproule
      Kingfishers have large heads with long, sharp beaks.
    • There are ten different kingfisher species in Australia.
      By: Tupungato
      There are ten different kingfisher species in Australia.
    • Kingfishers feed on small fish.
      By: Erni
      Kingfishers feed on small fish.