European KINGFISHER

The European Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) is a bird of stunning beauty. Characterized by magnificent plumage, it boasts an emerald green back, vivid orange belly, and electric blue wings. The female can be distinguished by the orange underside of her bill. Juveniles exhibit duller colors, with brownish legs compared to the orange legs of adults. The kingfisher primarily feeds on fish, swiftly diving from a perch over water to catch its prey. Its fishing technique involves seizing the catch with its sharp beak before resurfacing to swallow it. Known for its solitary nature and territorial behavior, the kingfisher establishes its habitat along rivers, lakes, and ponds, where it digs tunnels approximately 1 meter deep into the banks to build its nest. Reproduction occurs in spring, with the kingfisher selecting breeding sites such as steep, sandy riverbanks for nest construction. These nests are typically located close to water, providing easy access to its primary food source.