Todiramphus winchelli
The Rufous-lored Kingfisher (*Todiramphus winchelli*) is a captivating member of the Alcedinidae family, endemic to the southern Philippine islands. Measuring approximately 20-22 cm (8-9 inches) in length, it exhibits a striking plumage featuring an iridescent blue-green back and wings, contrasting white underparts, and a prominent white nuchal collar. Its most distinctive field mark, giving it its common name, is the rich rufous (rusty-brown) lore - the area between the bill and the eye. Mal...
This kingfisher primarily inhabits lowland and lower montane primary and secondary forests, often near streams, clearings, or in mangrove areas. It is typically found at elevations below 1,000 meters, preferring dense forest edges.
Its diet consists mainly of large insects (such as beetles, grasshoppers, and cicadas), small lizards, amphibians, and occasionally crabs or other small terrestrial invertebrates. It primarily forages by a perch-and-pounce method from an elevated vantage point.
The Rufous-lored Kingfisher is a diurnal and generally solitary bird, though it can be observed in pairs, especially during the breeding season. It employs a classic perch-and-pounce foraging strategy, waiting patiently on an elevated branch for extended periods before swiftly swooping down to ca...
The Rufous-lored Kingfisher is strictly endemic to the southern Philippines, with its range primarily encompassing the large island of Mindanao, Basilan Island, and the various islands of the Sulu Archipelago. The nominate subspecies, *Todiramphus winchelli winchelli*, is found on Mindanao and Ba...
Near Threatened
- The Rufous-lored Kingfisher's distinctive rufous lore is a key identifier, distinguishing it from other similar-looking kingfisher species in the Philippines. - Unlike many 'true' kingfishers, this species primarily hunts terrestrial prey rather than fish, showcasing its adaptation to forest en...