Ceyx lepidus
The Moluccan Dwarf Kingfisher (Ceyx lepidus) is an exquisite and diminutive jewel of the tropical rainforests, renowned for its brilliant, iridescent plumage. Measuring a mere 13 cm (5.1 in) in length and weighing just 12-16 grams (0.4-0.6 oz), it is one of the smallest kingfishers in its range. Its back and crown shimmer with intense cobalt-blue to violet-blue, contrasting sharply with its bright rufous underparts and a distinctive white throat patch. The long, pointed bill and legs are a st...
Primarily inhabiting dense, moist tropical rainforests and secondary growth, it is typically found in lowlands up to moderate elevations, often near small streams or damp areas, but not necessarily large bodies of water.
Its diet primarily consists of insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, crickets, and spiders, supplemented occasionally by small frogs, lizards, or snails, caught by diving from low perches.
The Moluccan Dwarf Kingfisher is a largely solitary and diurnal bird, often perching motionlessly on low branches or roots within the dense undergrowth, making it surprisingly difficult to spot despite its vibrant colors. Its primary foraging strategy involves short, rapid dashes or dives from th...
The Moluccan Dwarf Kingfisher is endemic to the Moluccas (Maluku Islands) of Indonesia, with its distribution spanning across numerous islands within this archipelago. Its range includes major islands such as Halmahera, Seram, Buru, Obi, Morotai, and the Sula Islands, as well as many smaller isle...
Least Concern
- The Moluccan Dwarf Kingfisher is one of the smallest kingfishers in the world, a true miniature jewel. - Its iridescent blue plumage is structural coloration, meaning it's created by the microscopic structure of the feathers scattering light, not by pigments. - Despite its brilliant colors, its...