Key Information
Kingfishers
| Species | 118 species |
| Diet | Carnivores |
| Length | 3.96 to 18 inches |
| Weight | 0.32 to 15 oz |
| Wingspan | 10 to 24 inches |
| Lifespan | 2 to 7 years (up to 15 in some cases) |
| Conservation Status | Some not threatened, others endangered |
| Classification | Aves > Coraciiformes > Alcedines > Alcedinidae |
| Habitat | Often rivers and lakes, forests, some in mountains and deserts |
Learning Point
- Kingfishers are colorful birds that are amazing fish hunters! They have bright feathers, often blue or orange, and long, pointed beaks like tiny spears. They love to live near rivers and lakes, where they can spot fish swimming below. When they see a fish, they dive headfirst into the water with a splash and catch it with their sharp beaks. Sometimes, you can see them sitting very still on a branch, watching for their next meal, or building their nests in holes dug into riverbanks.
Project
- Draw a picture of a kingfisher hunting fish.
- Overview
- X-Ray
- Gallery
Location
| Places | Worldwide, except most deserts and the polar regions |
Fun Facts
- Many kingfishers have bright, colorful feathers, like blues, oranges, and greens.
- They have long, sharp beaks that act like spears to grab their slippery prey.
- Some kingfishers build their nests in tunnels they dig into riverbanks.
- They have excellent eyesight, which helps them spot fish swimming underwater.
Past Lessons
| 168 | March 26, 2025 | (North America) |