A beautiful and versatile bird found across sub-Saharan Africa, particularly in woodlands, savannas, scrublands, and sometimes even near human settlements. Unlike what many people expect from a kingfisher, the brown-hooded kingfisher spends most of its time hunting on land, making it a bit of a kingfisher rebel compared to its more water-loving cousins.
Physically, the brown-hooded kingfisher is a medium-sized bird, and it has a rich brown head and shoulders, giving it its common name, and a stunning splash of electric blue on its wings and tail that flashes vividly when it flies. Its underparts are pale buff or white, and it sports a strong red bill, perfect for snapping up insects and small prey. Its combination of earthy and vibrant colors makes it one of the more subtly beautiful kingfishers.
These birds are perch-and-pounce hunters, often seen sitting quietly on a low branch or fence post, scanning the ground for prey. They eat a wide variety of land-based food, including insects, small reptiles, spiders, and even small rodents. Once they spot a meal, they drop down quickly to snatch it up, then return to a perch to beat it against a branch if necessary before swallowing it.
Despite their strong bills and energetic hunting style, brown-hooded kingfishers are very territorial but not overly aggressive. Males and females often duet together, singing a series of whistling chattering calls to defend their territory or maintain their pair bond.
They are cavity nesters, digging burrows in sandy banks, termite mounds, or even roadside cuttings. Both parents help dig the nest tunnel and raise the chicks. The nesting season usually coincides with the start of the rains when food becomes abundant.
Distribution
Angola
Botswana
Congo-Brazzaville
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Eswatini
Gabon
Kenya
Malawi
Mozambique
Namibia
Somalia
South Africa
Tanzania
Zambia
ZimbabweAnything we've missed?
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Terrestrial / Aquatic
Altricial / Precocial
Polygamous / Monogamous
Dimorphic (size) / Monomorphic
Active: Diurnal / Nocturnal
Social behavior: Solitary / Pack / Herd
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
