The basics
Kingfishers are a large family of birds that is medium in size and known for their fish-hunting feeding habits. There are three types of Kingfishers, or subfamilies. The tree kingfishers (Halcyoninae) are the largest group. They include 12 genera and some kookaburras. River kingfishers are also available (Alcedininae), which includes all American kingfishers.
The water kingfishers can be found in Australia, Southeast Asia and Africa (Cerylinae). Alcedininae, which is the most basic of these subfamilies means that all the other families have evolved from it.
Appearance
All kingfishers are large birds of medium size with long, pointed bills that help in the capture of fish and other prey. The smallest species is the African dwarf kingfisher ( Ispidinalecontei) at 3.9 inches (10 cm) and 0.32-0.42oz (9-12 grams) in length. White Birds The largest African species is the giant kingfisher ( Megacaeryle maximala) at approximately 9-15 oz (254-426 g) while the laughing Kookaburra is Dacelo Novaeguineae, also known as the Australian Kingfisher. Females can weigh up to
Distribution and Habitat
There are many species of Kingfisher. They have a wide distribution. There are only a few species of kingfisher in America. Most are either rare or restricted to small areas. The common kingfisher is the only species that occurs frequently.
The majority of kingfisher species can be found in Africa, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. Some species, like the common kingfisher which is found throughout Europe, North Africa and Asia, have wide ranges. Some species, however, can only be found in small areas or on a single island, such as the Kofiau paradis kingfisher (Tanysiptera Ellioti), that lives on an island close to New Guinea.
Kingfishers can be found in many habitats within their range. Although they are known for being fish-eaters, less then half of all species live in rivers and lakes. Some species can tolerate the harshest deserts of Australia while others prefer the high mountains. Many species live in forests and small streams within forests. Some species are able to adapt to urban areas, such as parks and agricultural zones. Human development is a serious threat to the existence of other species.
Prey and predators
Kingfishers eat fish in large numbers. Kingfishers are well-known for their aggressive hunting techniques and speed. They will jump into the water headfirst to ‘harpoon” their prey with sharp bills. They will eat shrimp-like crustaceans and frogs and other lizards, as well as insects, mollusks and snakes depending on their species. While some species can eat a variety of items, others, such as the majority of water kingfishers, (Cerylinae), are specialists in fishing.
Reproduction and nesting
Kingfishers are territorial in nature. While they tend to breed monogamously, some species like the laughing kookaburra may practice cooperative breeding strategies in which their ‘helpers” will help the dominant breeding pair raise their young.
Kingfishers can build nests in any number of places, including tree cavities and holes dug into river banks. Some species may build their nests in termite nests, which is quite amazing. The majority of species will lay between 2-10 small, white eggs per clutch. Both males and females can help with nest building and incubation. Young kingfishers can live up to 15 years after hatching. They are usually kept with their parents for 3-4 months.
While some species have been able to adapt well to living in human-developed areas, others are under threat. Many forest-dwelling species are in danger of losing their habitats as more deforestation occurs around the globe. Many species, such as the Marquesan Kingfisher ( Todiramphus Godeffroyi), are listed as critically endangered.
Fun facts about Kingfisher
The kingfisher is a shy and mysterious bird that has been captivated by humans for centuries. There are many species of kingfishers. This makes it easy to discover interesting facts about them, such as their plumage and feeding habits.
How do Kingfishers get so bright?
Bright feathers are a hallmark of many kingfisher species. This trait is shared by some birds using iridescence and pigments. The unique structural features of their feathers, which scatter blue light, make kingfishers plumage appear brighter than others.
There is, however, an exception to the rule. To achieve their stunning shine, iridescence and semi-iridescence are used by kingfishers that are native to the Americas ( Chloroceryle). This is how Peacock feathers get their shine.
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