A stunning and elusive bird found only on Makira Island in the Solomon Islands, making it an endemic species with a very limited range. As its name suggests, it’s a small species of kingfisher, and one of the most colorful birds in its rainforest habitat. Despite its brilliant appearance, it is rarely seen, spending much of its time deep within the dense lowland forests of the island, away from human activity.

This kingfisher has a vivid, almost jewel-like plumage with a deep blue or purplish-blue back, bright orange underparts, and a compact, straight black bill perfect for catching small insects and invertebrates. Its dazzling colors help it blend into the dappled light of the forest understory, where it perches quietly and waits for prey. Unlike some of its relatives that live near water, the Makira dwarf kingfisher is a forest specialist, hunting mostly on land.

This bird was once considered a subspecies of the variable dwarf kingfisher (Ceyx lepidus), but detailed studies of its appearance and genetics led scientists to recognize it as its own distinct species. This change highlights how much biodiversity exists on remote islands like Makira — and how much is still being discovered.

Its hunting style is quiet and precise, often going unnoticed as it flits through the shadows of the forest. Another cool detail: because of its small size and shy nature, this kingfisher is rarely seen, and even experienced birdwatchers may struggle to spot one in the wild.

Distribution

Country

Population est.

Status

Year

Comments

Solomon Islands

10,000-30,000

Official estimate

LC

2017