Ceyx margarethae
The Dimorphic Dwarf Kingfisher, Ceyx margarethae, is a truly striking and diminutive jewel of the Philippine rainforests, named for its distinctive sexual dimorphism. Measuring a mere 12-14 cm (4.7-5.5 inches) in length, this tiny kingfisher captivates with its brilliant plumage. Males boast deep iridescent blue upperparts, fiery orange underparts, a crisp white throat, a blue supercilium, and distinctive white spots on the flanks, all complemented by a bright red bill. Females, on the other ...
This elusive kingfisher inhabits primary lowland evergreen forests, occasionally venturing into dense secondary growth, favoring shaded areas near small streams or seepages. It is typically found at elevations below 1000 meters, often lower than 600 meters.
Primarily insectivorous, feeding on grasshoppers, beetles, crickets, flies, and dragonflies, supplemented occasionally with small lizards and frogs. It forages by diving from low perches to glean prey from the ground or water surface.
The Dimorphic Dwarf Kingfisher is a predominantly solitary and highly elusive bird, often observed perching quietly on low branches within the dense understory. Its foraging strategy involves patient observation, followed by a swift dive to snatch prey from the ground, leaf litter, or water surfa...
The Dimorphic Dwarf Kingfisher is endemic to the Philippines, boasting a relatively wide but disjunct distribution across several islands within the archipelago. Its breeding range encompasses key islands such as Mindanao, Basilan, Dinagat, Siargao, Bohol, Samar, and Leyte, with possible occurren...
Least Concern
- The 'Dimorphic' in its name refers to the distinct plumage differences between males and females, a relatively rare trait among kingfisher species. - Unlike many of its larger, fish-eating kingfisher relatives, the Dimorphic Dwarf Kingfisher primarily hunts terrestrial insects and small land ve...