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Kingfisher

Kingfisher is a colorful bird known for diving into water to catch fish. This article provides information about Kingfisher.

Lavesh Dure

Published:

October 16, 2025

The kingfisher is a brightly colored bird known for its sharp beak and incredible fishing skills. Found near rivers, lakes, and coasts, this vibrant bird dives swiftly to catch fish. Its stunning plumage and quick flight make it a favorite among bird watchers worldwide.

Kingfisher Facts Overview

Height	10–12 cm
Length	16–19 cm
Weight	30–45 g
Speed	Up to 40 km/h
Food	Mainly fish, insects, and small aquatic creatures
Color	Bright blue, orange, and green
Location	Found across Europe, Asia, Africa, and Australia
Predators	Hawks, snakes, and larger birds
Lifespan	6–15 years (average 7 years)
Habitat	Riverbanks, lakes, streams, and wetlands
Gestation	Eggs incubated for about 19–21 days

What is special about a kingfisher?

The kingfisher is a brightly colored bird known for its expert fishing skills and lightning-fast dives. It has iridescent feathers, sharp vision, and nests in riverbank tunnels. Found worldwide, this bird symbolizes peace and prosperity, often called the “bird of happiness” in many cultures.

Kingfisher perches on a weathered branch

What are the characteristics of a kingfisher?

Kingfishers are colorful birds with bright blue and orange feathers, sharp beaks, and excellent vision. They are skilled hunters, diving swiftly to catch fish and insects. These birds nest in riverbank tunnels and are commonly found near clean rivers, lakes, and wetlands around the world.

How rare are kingfishers in the UK?

In the UK, kingfishers are uncommon but not extremely rare. They’re usually found near clean rivers, lakes, and canals with plenty of small fish. Because they’re sensitive to pollution and cold winters, their numbers can drop after harsh weather, but they’ve been steadily recovering in recent years. Spotting one is still considered a special treat for birdwatchers.

Kingfisher bird perches on a weathered wooden surface

What is the favourite food of a Kingfisher?

A kingfisher’s favorite food is fish, especially small species like minnows and sticklebacks. They hunt by diving swiftly into the water to catch their prey with sharp beaks. Besides fish, kingfishers also eat aquatic insects, tadpoles, and small crustaceans when fish are scarce.

Where does a kingfisher nest?

A kingfisher nests in tunnels it digs into riverbanks or sandy soil near water. Both male and female birds work together to excavate a narrow tunnel that can be up to 1 meter deep, ending in a small chamber where they lay their eggs and raise their chicks.

Lavesh Dure

Science writer & Wildlife Expert.

Lavesh Dure is a freelance science writer with a keen interest in all things animals and birds. He graduated from Mahatma University. He enjoys collecting and writing about ancient animals and birds. He is the author of the Animals Birds World website.

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