bird · GBIF taxon 2475532
Common Kingfisher
Alcedo atthisAlso known as Eurasian Kingfisher, River Kingfisher, European Kingfisher
Common kingfishers are dazzling, cobalt-blue and orange hunters that frequent slow-flowing rivers, streams, and lakes. They hunt from low-hanging branches, plunging headfirst into the water with closed eyes to seize small fish with their dagger-like bills. Breeding pairs excavate deep nesting tunnels in steep sandy riverbanks, defending these linear territories fiercely throughout the year.
ColorfulDiurnalPiscivorous
1 / 7- diet
- Small fish, aquatic insects, and freshwater crustaceans
- family
- Alcedinidae
- threats
- Water pollution, riverbank development, severe winter freezes, and habitat loss
- life Span
- 7 to 15 years
LC
Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Nesting burrows in sandy riverbanks are highly vulnerable to human disturbance, erosion, and dog activity.
Maintain a distance of at least 50 meters from active nest burrows and never block their flight path.- Listen for the call: A sharp, whistling 'tsee-tsee' often gives away their presence before they are seen flying low over the water.
- Look for perches: Scan low-hanging branches, reeds, or posts near deep pools where they wait to spot prey.
- Keep your distance: Avoid approaching riverbanks during the spring nesting season to prevent nest abandonment.