A stocky, big-headed bird with a rattling call that signals their presence long before sight. They dive headfirst into water to catch small fish, surfacing and shaking like wet dogs.

Also called: Kingfisher

Native status: Native; widespread

§ Quick facts

SizeBody 28–35 cm (11–14 in); wingspan 48–58 cm
Weight140–170 g (5–6 oz)
LifespanWild 6 years; oldest documented 14
OrderCoraciiformes
FamilyAlcedinidae

§ Encyclopedia

The belted kingfisher is a large, conspicuous water kingfisher, native to North America.

Source: Wikipedia — Belted kingfisher Licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

§ Identification

Field marks. Stocky, shaggy-crested blue-gray bird with white belly.

Similar species. Other US kingfishers. Blue Jay (smaller, less crested).

Voice. Loud dry rattle.

§ Diet & behavior

Diet. Small fish (3–14 cm), crayfish, large insects.

Behavior. Females are MORE colorful than males. Nest in burrows excavated in stream banks.

§ Range

Throughout North America wherever clear water and fish are present

§ Habitat

Lakes, rivers, coastal estuaries with clear water

§ Threats

Stream sediment loading reducing visibility for hunting, bank stabilization eliminating nest burrows, pesticide accumulation in fish.

§ Conservation status

According to the IUCN Red List, the belted kingfisher is currently classified as Least Concern.

§ What helps

Reduce sediment runoff. Maintain natural stream banks (kingfishers excavate burrows in soft earth). Support clean water rules.

Support our work More ways to help

§ Further reading

§ Sources cited

  • Cornell Lab — All About Birds
  • iNaturalist
  • IUCN Red List 2018