Stork-billed Kingfisher

Pelargopsis capensis

Family: Kingfishers · Status: Common resident · Size: 37.5–41 cm · Conservation: Least Concern

Range

Occurs across the Indian subcontinent and southwest China through Southeast Asia.

Identification

Adult has a massive scarlet bill, sandy brown head, warm orange-yellow underparts, deep azure blue upperparts with a pale blue streak down its back that is visible in flight. Juvenile with darker bill and scalloping on breast.

Habitat

Water bodies in or near forests, parks, gardens, open woodlands, mangroves, rivers, canals, reservoirs, coastal habitats.

Behaviour

Typically perches over water to hunt, dives to catch fish and crustaceans; also feeds on amphibians, reptiles, and insects.