Ceyx pusillus
The Little Kingfisher, *Ceyx pusillus*, is a diminutive and dazzling member of the Alcedinidae family, famed for its vibrant plumage and rapid, darting flight. Measuring a mere 11-13 cm in length and weighing just 10-16 grams, it is one of the smallest kingfishers in the world. Its striking appearance includes glossy cobalt-blue upperparts, pristine white underparts, and bright orange-rufous lores and ear-coverts, complemented by short, orange legs and a stout, black bill. This species exhibi...
Found primarily along tropical and subtropical freshwater streams, rivers, ponds, and lakes, as well as coastal estuaries and mangrove swamps. Typically inhabits lowland areas from sea level up to around 800-1000 meters elevation.
Feeds predominantly on small fish and aquatic insects, including dragonfly larvae, as well as tadpoles and small crustaceans. Foraging is primarily by plunge-diving from a low perch over water.
This generally solitary and often secretive bird is diurnal, spending its day perched low over water, scanning for prey. Its primary foraging strategy is a classic 'perch and plunge' method, where it dives headfirst into the water to snatch fish or invertebrates; occasionally, it may hover briefl...
The Little Kingfisher boasts a wide distribution across Australasia, encompassing New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, Lesser Sunda Islands, and northern and eastern coastal Australia, extending south to northeastern New South Wales. It is resident throughout this extensive range, showing little to n...
Least Concern
- The Little Kingfisher is among the smallest kingfishers globally, a true 'miniature hunter'. - Despite its vivid colors, its rapid flight and small size make it surprisingly difficult to spot. - It possesses specialized vision that allows it to compensate for light refraction when diving from a...