Birds
Common Kingfisher
A flash of electric blue that dives like an arrow into still water.
Quick Facts
Scientific name
Alcedo atthis
Animal group
Birds
Diet
Carnivore (fish)
Habitat
Rivers, streams, and lakes
Conservation status
Least Concern
Conservation status is based on the IUCN Red List and reviewed by our conservation team every year.
About This Animal
Small but spectacular, kingfishers hunt by perching above water and diving headfirst after fish.
Habitat & Range
Common kingfishers live across Europe, Asia, and North Africa wherever clean, slow water flows.
Diet & Behavior
They beat fish against a branch before swallowing them headfirst, and dig nesting tunnels into riverbanks.
How We Can Help
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