Kingfishers are small unmistakable bright blue and orange birds of slow moving or still water. They fly rapidly, low over water, and hunt fish from riverside perches, occasionally hovering above the water's surface. They are a vulnerable to hard winters and habitat degradation through pollution or unsympathetic management of watercourses. Kingfishers are amber listed because of their unfavourable conservation status in Europe.
Key ID Features:
Although it's plumage is actually rather brown, the irridescence producing electric blue upperparts and crown and bright orange underparts and cheek make this one of the UK's most stunning birds.
The barred blue cap and vivid blue spinal streak are accentuated in sunlight.
A white cheek patch and chin break up the otherwise boldly coloured appearance.
Tiny red legs are blacker in juveniles.
The long, dagger like bill is all black in males but the female's has a red base.
Overview
Scientific name: Alcedo atthis
Family: Kingfishers (Alcedinidae)
Where to see them:
They are widespread, especially in central and southern England, becoming less common further north but following some declines last century, they are currently increasing in their range in Scotland. Kingfishers are found by still or slow flowing water such as lakes, canals and rivers in lowland areas. In winter, some individuals move to estuaries and the coast. Occasionally they may visit garden ponds if of a suitable size.
Seen in UK:
All year round.
What they eat
Fish and aquatic insects.
Text (c) RSPB, used with permission
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Location: Langford Lakes NR, Wiltshire
Photographer: Tim Tapley
