A small yet remarkably striking bird found across parts of Central and South America, extending northwards into the southern regions of Texas. Unlike its more famous relative, the Belted Kingfisher, the green kingfisher captivates bird watchers and nature enthusiasts with its vibrant emerald-green plumage. Its compact size makes it distinctly smaller than other kingfishers. Yet despite its petite stature, the green kingfisher packs a mighty punch with its sharp bill and swift flying skills, perfectly adapted for its riverside habitat.
Its distinct coloring is one characteristic that sets the green kingfisher apart from its relatives. Both males and females showcase bright, iridescent green feathers on their backs, but males boast a rich chestnut-red band across their chests. Females and juveniles, on the other hand, display less vivid coloring with spots and bars on their chests, providing them with better camouflage. This brilliant coloring not only sets them apart visually but also helps them blend seamlessly with the lush foliage along riverbanks and ponds, making them skilled hunters capable of stealthily approaching prey without being noticed.
Behaviorally, the green kingfisher stands out due to its unique hunting technique. Rather than diving from great heights like some of its larger relatives, it prefers perching quietly on low branches or logs close to the water’s surface, carefully watching for small fish and aquatic insects. Once it spots prey, it plunges swiftly and accurately, often returning to the same perch to enjoy its catch. This method allows the green kingfisher to conserve energy, making it an efficient hunter adapted to its tropical surroundings.
Distribution
Argentina
Belize
Bolivia
Brazil
Chile
Colombia
Costa Rica
Ecuador
El Salvador
French Guiana
Guatemala
Guyana
Honduras
Mexico
Nicaragua
Panama
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Trinidad & Tobago
United States
Uruguay
VenezuelaAnything we've missed?
Help us improve this page by suggesting edits. Glory never dies!
Suggest an editGet to know me
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
