The Belted Kingfisher is a unique bird that is native to North and Central America. It’s known for its distinctive appearance, featuring a shaggy crest of feathers on the top of its head, and bold blue and white coloration. Here are some interesting facts about this fascinating bird.
Basic Description
The Belted Kingfisher measures around 11 inches in length and weighs approximately 4 ounces. Male kingfishers have a single band of rufous-colored feathers across their chests, while females sport additional bands on their bellies as well. Both sexes have large heads with dagger-like bills.
Where To Find This Bird
Belted Kingfishers can be found near bodies of water such as rivers, streams, lakes or ponds throughout North America from Canada down to Mexico. They prefer areas where the water is clear enough for them to spot fish swimming below the surface but may also be seen along coastlines or even perched above farmland ditches.
Habitat
These birds live in forested areas with access to freshwater sources where they can hunt prey like small fish or aquatic insects from elevated perches like branches overhanging creeks or fallen logs jutting out into shallow waters.
Food
Kingfishers primarily eat fish – up to half their body weight during feeding time! They typically dive into water after spotting their prey from high overhead by hovering briefly before diving straight down bill-first into the water at breakneck speed (upwards of 25 miles an hour!). If it misses catching its target on one try then it will fly away quickly without any further pursuit – usually seeking out another likely location nearby for another chance at dinner.
Cool Facts
Did you know that while they make hunting look effortless these birds actually require precise vision? Their eyes have special adaptations that allow them to see through the water’s surface, enabling them to locate prey. Also, Belted Kingfishers often use a “laughing” call consisting of several high-pitched notes when threatened or disturbed.
The Belted Kingfisher is an amazing bird with unique characteristics and fascinating behaviors. It’s worth taking the time to observe these birds in their natural habitat – you might just learn something new about one of North America’s most iconic avian species!
