Renowned for its striking black and white plumage and distinctive crest, it holds the distinction of being the smallest among the three most numerous kingfisher species. This charismatic bird is commonly found in habitats adjacent to water bodies, such as rivers, lakes, ponds, and streams, where it displays its remarkable hunting prowess.
One of the most remarkable behaviors exhibited by the pied kingfisher is its unique hunting technique. Unlike other kingfisher species that typically dive from perches to catch their prey, the pied kingfisher employs a different strategy. It is known for its ability to hover effortlessly over clear water bodies, using its keen eyesight to spot small fish, crustaceans, and aquatic insects swimming below the surface. Once it locates its prey, the pied kingfisher plunges headfirst into the water with remarkable precision, emerging moments later with its catch secured firmly in its bill.
However, the pied kingfisher’s culinary skills extend beyond mere hunting prowess. This adaptable bird is capable of consuming its prey while in flight, a feat that sets it apart from other members of the kingfisher family. This remarkable ability allows the pied kingfisher to snatch prey from the water’s surface and immediately take to the air without the need to perch and consume its meal.
When it comes to nesting, the pied kingfisher exhibits a preference for vertical mud holes situated along the riverbank, typically positioned approximately five feet above the water. Within these earthen burrows, the female pied kingfisher lays its eggs and raises its young, demonstrating remarkable parental care and dedication throughout the breeding season.
While the pied kingfisher is primarily a resident species within its native range, it also engages in seasonal migrations, particularly in response to changing environmental conditions or resource availability. Despite its relatively small size, the pied kingfisher is a swift and agile flyer, capable of reaching speeds of up to 50 hm/h (31 mph) during its migratory journeys.
Distribution
Afghanistan
Angola
Bahrain
Bangladesh
Benin
Bhutan
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Cameroon
Central Af. Rep.
Chad
China
Congo-Brazzaville
Cyprus
Côte D’ivoire
DR Congo (Kinshasa)
Djibouti
Egypt
Equatorial Guinea
Eritrea
Eswatini
Ethiopia
France
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Greece
Guinea-Bissau
Guinea
Hong Kong
India
Iran
Iraq
Israel
Jordan
Kenya
Kuwait
Laos
Lebanon
Lesotho
Liberia
Macao
Malawi
Mali
Mauritania
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Nepal
Niger
Nigeria
Oman
Pakistan
Poland
Qatar
Rwanda
Saudi Arabia
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Somalia
South Africa
South Sudan
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Syria
São Tomé & Príncipe
Tanzania
Thailand
Togo
Turkey
UAE
Uganda
Ukraine
Vietnam
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 / Flock
Diet: Carnivore / Herbivore / Omnivore / Piscivorous / Insectivore
Migratory: Yes / No
Domesticated: Yes / No
Dangerous: Yes / No
