White-throated Kingfisher
Halcyon smyrnensis
The White-throated Kingfisher is one of the most familiar kingfishers across the Indian subcontinent. Despite its name, it is not restricted to aquatic habitats and can often be seen perched in open countryside, gardens and woodland edges.
Identification
A large kingfisher with a rich chocolate-brown head and body, bright blue wings and back, a white throat and breast, and a striking red bill.
Behaviour
Usually seen perched quietly before making a sudden flight to capture prey. It hunts from exposed perches and may feed on insects, small reptiles, amphibians and fish.
Diet
Its varied diet includes insects, frogs, lizards, small birds and fish. The species is capable of hunting well away from water.
Habitat
Found across a wide range of habitats including agricultural landscapes, gardens, woodland edges, wetlands and areas around human habitation.
My Photographs
Where I
Photographed It
India
Indian Subcontinent
A moment
from the field
The White-throated Kingfisher is one of those birds that can suddenly transform an ordinary landscape into a memorable wildlife moment. Its vivid blue wings and red bill make even a brief encounter hard to forget.