Alcedo coerulescens
The Cerulean Kingfisher, *Alcedo coerulescens*, is a stunning jewel of Southeast Asian waterways, often known as the Small Blue Kingfisher. Measuring a petite 13-14 cm (5.1-5.5 inches) in length and weighing around 14-20 grams, its diminutive size belies its vibrant coloration. Adult birds showcase dazzling iridescent blue-green upperparts, contrasting sharply with a pure white throat and rufous-orange underparts. A distinct white patch on the sides of the neck serves as a key field mark, com...
This species primarily inhabits lowland freshwater ecosystems, including slow-moving streams, canals, ponds, rice fields, and coastal mangroves, preferring clear, sheltered waters for hunting. It is typically found at elevations from sea level up to around 1300 meters.
Its diet consists almost exclusively of small fish, such as guppies and minnows, supplemented by aquatic insect larvae, small crustaceans, and tadpoles, all caught through specialized plunge-diving.
The Cerulean Kingfisher is a solitary, diurnal hunter, spending most of its active hours patiently perched on low branches or reeds over water, keenly observing for prey. Its primary foraging strategy involves spectacular plunge-diving: it rapidly dives headfirst into the water, emerging with a c...
The Cerulean Kingfisher is a widespread resident species found across the Indomalayan realm, with its distribution spanning much of Southeast Asia. Its breeding range covers the Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Java, Borneo, Sulawesi, and extends into the Lesser Sunda Islands and the Palawan group of th...
Least Concern
- The Cerulean Kingfisher's incredible eyesight is specially adapted to compensate for light refraction, allowing it to accurately spot prey from above the water and during a dive. - Despite its small size, it has a remarkably powerful and accurate dive, often submerging completely to catch prey....