Blue-bearded Bee-eater

The blue-bearded bee-eater is probably the largest bee-eater, 31–35cm long and 70–93g, with a large sickle-shaped bill. It is found in forest clearings in a variety of habitats mostly at medium altitudes below 2,000m. The elongated blue throat feathers are often fluffed, giving the name. The belly is yellowish to olive, and the square-ended tail lacks the 'wires' typical of smaller bee-eaters (Wikipedia, general species account).

It has a loud call but is not as gregarious or active as the smaller bee-eaters, and is found much of the Indian subcontinent and parts of South-east Asia. Nest excavation may begin a month before the eggs are laid (Wikipedia, general species account).