Brown-hooded Kingfisher

Overview

The brown-hooded kingfisher (Halcyon albiventris) is a species of bird in the subfamily Halcyoninae, known as the tree kingfishers. It is classified by the IUCN as a species of Least Concern due to its large range and stable population.

Identification

• Approximately 22 cm long with a brown head featuring blackish streaks and a broad buffy collar above the brownish-black mantle.
• Wings are mostly brownish-black with turquoise secondary flight feathers, contrasting with an azure-blue rump.
• Underparts consist of a white chin, a tawny breast with dark streaks, and a buffy belly; females are more heavily streaked than males.
• Distinctive red beak tipped with brown, carmine legs, and dark brown eyes; the species is recognised by a 'tiiiu' or 'ki-ti-ti-ti' trill while vibrating its wings.

Habitat

Found in Sub-Saharan Africa below 1,800 m elevation, inhabiting woodland, grassland with trees, scrubland, forest edges, and human-modified areas such as cultivations, parks, and gardens. It ranges across countries including Gabon, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Namibia, often occurring near water but also adapting to suburban environments.

Diet

This kingfisher forages mainly on the ground, consuming insects, scorpions, reptiles, small birds, rodents, and fishes. It is capable of eating snakes and lizards as long as 25 cm.

Did you know?

The bird produces its song while actively vibrating its wings, a distinctive trait accompanying its 'tiiiu' or 'ki-ti-ti-ti' trill.