No. 02
Kingfisher
Alcedo atthis
Introduction
Few British birds are as instantly recognisable as the Kingfisher. Its brilliant blue-green upperparts and rich orange underparts can appear almost tropical, yet this remarkable bird is found along rivers, streams, lakes and wetlands throughout much of Britain. Often first noticed as a flash of blue flying low over the water, a perched Kingfisher offers a wonderful opportunity to appreciate its extraordinary colour and detail.
Identification
The Kingfisher is a small, compact bird with a disproportionately large head, short tail and long, dagger-like bill. Brilliant blue-green upperparts contrast with rich orange underparts, while the throat and sides of the neck show white patches. Males have an entirely dark bill, while females usually show orange-red colouring at the base of the lower mandible.
Behaviour
Kingfishers spend long periods perched quietly above or beside the water, watching for movement beneath the surface. When prey is spotted, they dive rapidly, often entering the water almost vertically before returning to a perch with their catch. They can be strongly territorial and their fast, direct flight is often accompanied by a distinctive high-pitched call.
Habitat
Kingfishers favour slow-moving or still freshwater with good populations of small fish and plenty of suitable hunting perches. Rivers, streams, canals, lakes, gravel pits and wetlands can all provide suitable habitat. During the breeding season they require vertical or steep earth banks in which they can excavate a nesting tunnel.
Diet
Small fish form the majority of the Kingfisher's diet, although aquatic insects, small crustaceans and other aquatic prey may also be taken. Prey is usually located from a waterside perch before the bird dives into the water to capture it. Larger catches are often struck against the perch before being swallowed head-first.
Where to See
Kingfishers occur across much of Britain wherever suitable freshwater habitat is available. Look along slow-moving rivers, streams, canals, lakes and wetland reserves, particularly where branches or posts provide perches close to the water. Often the first indication is their high-pitched call or a sudden flash of blue flying rapidly and low over the water.
Photography Notes
Patience and observation are particularly important when photographing Kingfishers. Watching from a respectful distance can reveal regularly used fishing perches and predictable flight paths. A long lens allows natural behaviour to continue undisturbed, while fast shutter speeds are useful for diving and flight. Overcast conditions can work especially well, controlling highlights in the brilliant plumage while retaining detail and colour.
Conservation Status
Green-listed in the UK under the Birds of Conservation Concern assessment. Kingfishers remain vulnerable to habitat degradation, water pollution and severe winter weather, which can cause significant short-term population declines.
