Common Kingfisher

Kingfishers 👁 150 views Updated 2026-11-01

Common Kingfisher (<em>Alcedo atthis</em>) is a species of Kingfishers (<em>Alcedinidae</em>) in the order Kingfishers and Allies.

Overview

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) is a species of Kingfishers (Alcedinidae) in the order Kingfishers and Allies. A dazzling small bird with electric-blue back and orange underparts; perches over water and plunge-dives for fish with remarkable accuracy; nests in tunnels dug into banks; a jewel of riversides.

Scientific Classification

Genus: Alcedo; binomial: Alcedo atthis; authority: (Linnaeus, 1758). Typical size: 16-17cm. Average lifespan: 5-10 years.

Distribution

Breeding range: the Palearctic, the Oriental Region and Australasia.

Conservation Status

This taxon is listed as Extant (living) in the IOC World Bird List.

Remarks

No additional remarks recorded.

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