Meropidae – Bee-eaters
Powerful fliers only catch insects like wasps and bees during their flight and consume them after removing their venom
Members of this family are widespread in Asia, Africa, and some species in Europe, New Guinea, and Australia. They are distinguished by their brightly colored bodies and central tail feather, which is elongated. Like kingfishers and rollers, they have slender bodies, large heads, small necks, and weak feet. They have powerful wings, and their long flights are free of undulations. They can change their directions quickly during flight. Birds exclusively feed on insects as they are aerial hunters.
Birds are monogamous and remain with one partner for years. Migratory birds change their mates during the breeding season. Bee-eaters are highly sociable, and non-breeding birds help in egg incubation.
Genera in this family
These birds have incredible accuracy and are a pleasure to witness