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    Ceryle – Pied kingfisher

    Widely distributed across Asia and Africa, the Pied kingfisher is sociable, unlike other family members

    Medium in size but the smallest amongst the three most numerous kingfishers has a prominent black and white plumage and crest. They prefer living alongside water bodies and avoid mangroves and large swamps. It distinctively hovers over clear water bodies before catching fish. This noisy bird also forages on crustaceans and aquatic insects. The pied kingfisher has an exceptional ability to consume its prey while flying, unlike other kingfishers.

    It nests in a vertical mud hole alongside the riverbank five feet above the water. The pied kingfisher is a seasonal migrator who commonly stays in its native range and can fly at 50km/h (31 mph).