Common Kingfisher

Common kingfishers occur throughout Europe and Asia eastward to Japan, as well as in parts of Africa south of the Sahara. Southern populations may remain resident throughout the year, whereas northern birds move south when winter freezes open water. They inhabit lakes, ponds, rivers, streams, estuaries, brackish water, and coastal or riparian areas. Their brilliant blue upperparts contrast with rich chestnut underparts, a white throat, red feet, and a long, strong, sharply pointed bill adapted for securing aquatic prey (Animal Diversity Web).

A hunting kingfisher watches the water from a branch or other perch before diving to seize prey. Where perches are unavailable, it can hover while searching. Captured fish are carried back and struck against a perch, stunning or killing them and making spiny prey safer to swallow. The birds are usually solitary except during breeding, when males chase females and whistle loudly. They form seasonal monogamous pairs, breeding during warmer months from approximately April through October, and select new mates in successive years (Animal Diversity Web).