Merops albicollis
The White-throated Bee-eater (Merops albicollis) is a vibrant and agile avian jewel, captivating observers with its striking emerald-green plumage. Measuring approximately 20-22 cm in body length, excluding the impressive 7-9 cm central tail streamers of adults, and weighing around 20-28 grams, it is a medium-sized member of the Meropidae family. Key identification marks include its brilliant white throat, a prominent black stripe extending from the beak through the eye, and a distinct black ...
This species primarily inhabits open woodlands, savannas, and clearings, often preferring areas with scattered trees, thornbush, or cultivation. They are typically found in lowland areas, always near sandy banks or cliffs suitable for nesting.
The White-throated Bee-eater feeds almost exclusively on flying insects, predominantly Hymenoptera such as bees, wasps, and hornets. Prey is captured in mid-air via aerial hawking.
White-throated Bee-eaters are highly diurnal, spending their days actively foraging and often gathering in large, communal roosts in trees at night. Their primary foraging strategy involves sallying out from an exposed perch to expertly hawk flying insects mid-air, often returning to the same van...
The White-throated Bee-eater is an intra-African migrant with a wide distribution across the continent. Its breeding range spans the semi-arid Sahel belt of West and Central Africa, extending from Senegal eastwards through Mali, Niger, Chad, Sudan, and into Eritrea. Following the breeding season,...
Least Concern
- The White-throated Bee-eater is renowned for its unique technique of removing the stinger from bees and wasps by repeatedly rubbing the insect against a hard surface. - They are highly social, often nesting in large colonies that can number in the thousands of pairs, excavating extensive tunnel...