Swallow-tailed Bee-eater

Overview

The swallow-tailed bee-eater (Merops hirundineus) is a richly coloured, slender bird native to sub-Saharan Africa. Classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, it is known for its vivid plumage and distinctive forked tail.

Identification

• Mainly green plumage with a yellow throat, blue gorget, and a black eye stripe.
• Slender build reaching 20–22 cm in length, featuring a readily visible forked tail with long green or blue feathers.
• Possesses a black beak.
• Sexes are alike.

Habitat

This species breeds in savannah woodlands of sub-Saharan Africa, preferring somewhat more wooded country than most other bee-eaters. It is partially migratory, moving in response to rainfall patterns.

Diet

Feeds predominantly on insects, especially bees, wasps, and hornets, with a specific preference for honeybees. It catches prey in flight by making sorties from an open perch.

Did you know?

It nests in sandy banks or flat ground by digging a relatively long tunnel, in which it lays 2 to 4 spherical, white eggs.