Merops cyanophrys
The Arabian Green Bee-eater (Merops cyanophrys) is a truly dazzling avian jewel of the Arabian Peninsula and Levant, renowned for its brilliant emerald-green plumage. This slender, acrobatic insectivore typically measures 16-18 cm in length, including its two elongated central tail streamers that can add several centimeters, and weighs a mere 15-20 grams. Distinctive field marks include a striking blue supercilium (eyebrow) above a prominent black eye-stripe, a vibrant white or yellowish thro...
Primarily inhabits arid and semi-arid open country, preferring areas with scattered trees, shrubs, wadis, oases, and cultivated lands. Found from sea level up to moderate elevations in mountainous regions.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding almost exclusively on flying insects, with a strong preference for bees, wasps, dragonflies, butterflies, and grasshoppers. Foraging occurs by sallying from a perch to catch prey in flight.
Arabian Green Bee-eaters are diurnal and often observed perched conspicuously on exposed branches, fences, or utility lines, scanning for prey. Their foraging strategy is a classic 'sally-pounce' or 'sally-strike,' launching themselves from a perch to snatch flying insects in mid-air with remarka...
The Arabian Green Bee-eater is a resident species primarily distributed across the Arabian Peninsula, encompassing Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait. Its range extends northwards into parts of the Levant, including Israel, Jordan, and the Sinai Peninsula ...
Least Concern
- The 'bee-eater' name is literal: they are renowned for their ability to safely consume stinging insects like bees and wasps, expertly removing the stinger by rubbing the insect on a perch before swallowing. - Despite their vibrant green plumage, they are remarkably camouflaged among the foliage...