Pelargopsis capensis
The Stork-billed Kingfisher, Pelargopsis capensis, is a magnificent and unmistakable bird, renowned for its massive, bright red, stork-like bill that gives it its common name. This large kingfisher measures approximately 35-38 cm (13.8-15 inches) in length and weighs between 150-240 grams, making it one of the heaviest kingfishers. Its striking plumage features a rufous or orange head and underparts, a brilliant blue-green back and wings, and a contrasting white throat. Key identification mar...
Found primarily in tropical and subtropical lowlands, inhabiting a variety of freshwater and brackish environments including large rivers, lakes, ponds, estuaries, and especially mangrove forests.
Feeds predominantly on fish, supplemented by crabs, prawns, large insects, frogs, lizards, rodents, and even small birds; primarily forages by diving from a perch.
A largely solitary and diurnal bird, the Stork-billed Kingfisher typically perches motionless and upright on prominent, overhanging branches, patiently scanning the water for prey. Its primary foraging strategy is the 'sit-and-wait' technique, where it plunges headfirst into the water to seize fi...
The Stork-billed Kingfisher boasts a wide distribution across the Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia, from India and Sri Lanka eastward through Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand, and across the Malay Peninsula. Its range extends into the Greater Sunda Islands (Sumatra, Borneo, Java) of Indonesia,...
Least Concern
- The Stork-billed Kingfisher's bill can measure over 7 cm (2.8 inches) in length, making it disproportionately massive compared to its body size. - Despite its name, its bill is not actually used to stalk prey like a true stork but rather as a powerful tool for catching and subduing a wide range...