Common Kingfisher

Scientific Name: Alcedo atthis

Classification: Order: Coraciiformes; Family: Alcedinidae

Identified from audio
Common Kingfisher

Original Recording

Brief Description

A small, brightly colored bird known for its lightning-fast dives into water to catch fish. It has a large head, short tail, and a long, dagger-like bill.

Additional Information

  • Region of Origin: Eurasia and parts of North Africa
  • Typical Sighting Period: Year-round in temperate regions; seen in summer in northern regions and winter in southern ones.
  • Plumage Details: Brilliant azure-blue upperparts, bright orange underparts, and a white throat and neck patch. Females have an orange-red patch on the lower mandible (beak), whereas males have a solid black bill.
  • Ecological Significance: Acts as an indicator species for water quality and ecosystem health, as it requires clear water and healthy fish populations.
  • Conservation Status: Least Concern (IUCN)
  • Observation Tips: Look for them perched motionless on low branches overhanging slow-moving water. Listen for their sharp, high-pitched whistle as they fly low and fast.

Size & Weight

Length: 16-17 cm; Wingspan: 24-26 cm; Weight: 34-46 g

Diet

Primarily small fish (such as minnows and sticklebacks), as well as aquatic insects and crustaceans.

Habitat

Slow-moving rivers, canals, lakes, and coastal areas with abundant small fish and suitable nesting banks.

Migration

Mostly resident in Western Europe; birds from colder regions in Russia and Scandinavia migrate south for the winter.

Voice (Call & Song)

As heard in the recording, the call is a sharp, high-pitched 'tsee' or 'tsee-it,' often repeated while in flight.

Nesting & Breeding

Digs tunnels into vertical sandy or loamy riverbanks, ending in a nesting chamber where 5-7 eggs are laid.

Key Field Marks

Electric blue back and head, rufous ear coverts, bright orange belly, and white neck blaze.

Similar Species

Malachite Kingfisher (found in Africa, smaller), Azure Kingfisher (found in Australia).

Interesting Facts

Common Kingfishers must eat about 60% of their body weight daily. They have specialized eyes that can see clearly both in air and underwater.