Kingfishers
Kingfishers are a family of small to medium-sized, brightly coloured birds in the order Coraciiformes.
Kingfishers are a family of small to medium-sized, brightly coloured birds in the order Coraciiformes, known for fishing from perches near water. They are found worldwide, especially in tropical regions, and include roughly 90 to 118 species depending on classification.
What it is
Kingfishers belong to the family Alcedinidae. They are carnivorous birds that typically eat fish, but many species also take aquatic insects, crustaceans, amphibians, reptiles, and other small prey. The smallest species is the African dwarf kingfisher.
Where they live
Most kingfishers occur in tropical Africa, Asia, and Oceania, but the family also ranges into Europe and the Americas. They are commonly found near rivers, lakes, streams, wetlands, and forested waterside habitats. In Canada, the belted kingfisher is a familiar species along streams, lakes, and shorelines.
Key details
Kingfishers are not a single species but a diverse family. Their calls are often described as loud, piercing, rattling, or whistling. Conservation status varies by species; many are common and not endangered, while some face local threats.
In short
- Kingfishers are a bird family (Alcedinidae), not a single species.
- They are best known for diving from perches to catch fish and other small prey.
- Most species live in tropical regions, but the belted kingfisher is common across Canada.
- Conservation status depends on the species; many are not endangered.
Kingfishers are familiar to Canadian readers through species such as the belted kingfisher, which is common along streams, lakes, and shorelines across North America.
Quick questions
What do kingfishers eat?
How many species of kingfishers are there?
Are kingfishers endangered?
Sources
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KingfisherSupports: Family classification, broad distribution, and approximate species count.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/kingfisher-birdSupports: Kingfishers as a bird group, number of species, and loud rattling call.
- Bird Fact — https://www.birdfact.com/articles/what-do-kingfishers-eatSupports: Typical kingfisher diet including fish and other prey.
- San Diego Zoo Wildlife Explorers — https://www.sandiegozoo.org/animals/kingfisherSupports: Species count used by one source, smallest species, and family overview.
- Canal & River Trust — https://www.canalrivertrust.org.uk/things-to-do/canal-and-river-wildlife/a-spotters-guide-to-waterway-wildlife/kingfisher-waterway-wildlifeSupports: Habitat, diet, call description, and note that UK kingfishers are not considered endangered.
- Cornell Lab of Ornithology — https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Belted_Kingfisher/lifehistorySupports: Belted kingfisher diet, call, and conservation status in North America.
- Scottish Wildlife Trust — https://www.scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/2024/01/what-is-a-kingfishers-diet-a-kingfisher-pellet-analysis/Supports: Common kingfisher diet dominated by fish with occasional other prey.