Chloroceryle amazona
The Amazon Kingfisher (Chloroceryle amazona) is a striking Neotropical species, renowned for its brilliant green plumage and masterful fishing prowess. Measuring approximately 29-30 cm (11.4-11.8 inches) in length and weighing 100-117 grams (3.5-4.1 oz), it is one of the larger members of the genus *Chloroceryle*, characterized by its emerald-green upperparts and clean white underparts. A key field mark for identification is the distinct sexual dimorphism: males boast a broad, rich rufous-che...
Found primarily along the banks of slow-moving rivers, streams, lakes, and oxbows, often in forested or partially open tropical and subtropical lowlands, typically below 1200 meters elevation.
Primarily piscivorous, consuming small to medium-sized fish, but also supplementing their diet with large aquatic insects (e.g., dragonfly larvae), freshwater crabs, and shrimp.
Amazon Kingfishers are diurnal and predominantly solitary birds, spending much of their day perched silently on branches overhanging water, patiently scanning for prey. Their primary foraging strategy involves a sudden, headfirst dive into the water to snatch fish, followed by a swift return to a...
The Amazon Kingfisher boasts an extensive resident range across the Neotropics, from southeastern Mexico southward through Central America, and throughout much of South America. Its distribution in South America lies primarily east of the Andes, encompassing the vast Amazon Basin, Guiana Shield c...
Least Concern
- The Amazon Kingfisher's incredible diving speed allows it to snatch fish from the water's surface in a fraction of a second. - Unlike many bird species, the male Amazon Kingfisher is more brightly colored on its breast (rufous-chestnut) than the female, which helps differentiate them easily in ...