Kingfishers

Belted Kingfisher, Megaceryle alcyon

Family Alcedinidae (Kingfishers)

Size: 13"

Season: Year-round

Habitat: Creeks, lakes, sheltered coastline

The widespread but solitary belted kingfisher is a stocky, large-headed bird with a powerful long bill and shaggy crest. It is a grayish blue green above and white below, with a thick blue band across the breast and white dotting on the back. White spots are at the lores. The female has an extra rufous breast band and is rufous along the flanks. Belted kingfishers feed by springing from a perch along the water’s edge or by hovering above the water and then plunging headfirst to snatch fish, frogs, or tadpoles. Its flight is uneven, and its voice is a raspy, rattling sound. The adult female is illustrated.