Common Kingfisher

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Acts as an indicator species for water quality and ecosystem health, as it requires clear water and healthy fish populations.

Least Concern (IUCN)

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.

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