PIED KINGFISHER

PIED KINGFISHER

Ceryle rudis

afrikaans: Bontvisvanger

23–25 cm; 70–110 g

Description:-

A large, black-and-white kingfisher, with a long, black bill and short crest. Male has double breast band; female has a single, incomplete breast band. Juv. like female, but feathers from chin to breast edged buff.

Voice:-

Rattling twitter; sharp, high-pitched ‘chik-chik’.

Status and biology:-

Common resident at freshwater wetlands, coastal lagoons and tidal pools. Frequently hovers over water. Often seen in small groups; breeds co-operatively.