Crested Kingfisher

Scientific Name: Megaceryle lugubris

Classification: Order: Coraciiformes, Family: Alcedinidae

Crested Kingfisher

Brief Description

A very large, boldly patterned kingfisher with a large shaggy crest. It is often seen perched on rocks or low branches over fast-flowing mountain rivers.

Additional Information

  • Region of Origin: Southern and Eastern Asia
  • Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in most tropical and subtropical ranges, particularly active in early mornings.
  • Plumage Details: Features a prominent shaggy crest. The plumage is primarily slate-grey to blackish with fine white spotting and barring across the wings and tail. The throat and underparts are white with a spotted rufous or grey collar in males (females often lack the rufous wing linings).
  • Ecological Significance: As an apex predator of small aquatic life in mountain streams, it serves as a bioindicator of water quality and ecosystem health.
  • Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN), though local populations may decline due to river pollution and deforestation.
  • Observation Tips: Look for them along rocky, fast-flowing mountain streams and larger rivers. They are shy and often fly off if approached, so use binoculars or long lenses.

Size & Weight

Length: 41-43 cm (16-17 in); Weight: Approximately 230-310 grams.

Diet

Primarily fish, but also consumes crayfish, shrimp, and small aquatic insects. It hunts by diving from a perch.

Habitat

Foothills and mountain streams, large rivers with rocky banks, and forest edges near water.

Migration

Resident; mostly sedentary but may move to lower altitudes or larger water bodies during severe winters.

Voice (Call & Song)

A loud, harsh, rhythmic 'kwick-kwick' or 'kek' sound, often delivered while in flight or when alarmed.

Nesting & Breeding

Excavates a long tunnel (up to 2-3 meters) in a vertical sand or earth bank near water. Lays 4-7 eggs during the spring.

Key Field Marks

Massive black-and-white crest, large heavy bill, slate-grey and white spotted plumage, and significantly larger size than other Asian kingfishers.

Similar Species

Pied Kingfisher (much smaller, lacks the large crest, different markings); Greater Pied Kingfisher (not a commonly used name, but often confused with related larger Asian species).

Interesting Facts

It is the largest kingfisher in Asia and is known for its ability to hover briefly over water before diving, though it prefers to hunt from a stationary perch.