European Bee-eater

Brief Description

A slender, medium-sized bird known for its brilliant plumage and long, decurved beak. It is a gregarious bird that often perches on wires or branches to hunt insects in mid-air.

Additional Information

• Region of Origin: Southern Europe, Northern Africa, and parts of Western Asia
• Typical Sighting Period: Summer (Breeding season from May to August in Europe; migrates to Tropical Africa for winter)
• Plumage Details: Highly colorful with a chestnut crown and nape, yellow throat bordered by a black line, blue-green breast/underparts, and golden-brown back feathers.
• Ecological Significance: Acts as a natural pest controller by consuming large quantities of flying insects like bees, wasps, and dragonflies; also serves as a prey species for various birds of prey.
• Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN Red List)
• Observation Tips: Look for them in open countryside near riverbanks or sandy cliffs where they nest in burrows. They are often first detected by their distinctive, liquid 'pruip-pruip' liquid calls.