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A small Blue-eared Kingfisher with deep metallic blue upperparts and orange underparts, perched on a branch above water.Least Concern

Blue-eared Kingfisher

Alcedo meninting

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is a stunningly vibrant, small kingfisher found across dense evergreen forests and riverine habitats in South and Southeast Asia. Characterised by its deep blue upperparts, bright rufous underparts, and distinct blue ear-coverts, it closely resembles the Common Kingfisher but is generally darker. It is highly territorial and typically hunts from a low, shaded perch close to the water, diving rapidly to catch small fish and crustaceans.

Did you know?
Despite its brilliant colours, the Blue-eared Kingfisher is incredibly difficult to spot as it hunts from deeply shaded perches in dense jungle foliage.

Blue-eared Kingfisher Quick Facts

Lifespan
Up to 7 years
Habitat
Forest streams and mangroves
Diet
Small fish, aquatic insects
Region
South & Southeast Asia

Frequently Asked Questions About the Blue-eared Kingfisher

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is usually solitary.

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is typically diurnal.

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is resident.

The main threats facing the Blue-eared Kingfisher include Deforestation, Water pollution, and Habitat loss.

The Blue-eared Kingfisher population trend is currently decreasing.

Well-known places to look for the Blue-eared Kingfisher include Kinabatangan River (Borneo), Danum Valley (Malaysia), Khao Yai National Park (Thailand), and Sinharaja Forest Reserve (Sri Lanka).

Natural predators of the Blue-eared Kingfisher include Birds of prey and Snakes.

The Blue-eared Kingfisher is part of the Alcedinidae family and a Coraciiformes order.

The Blue-eared Kingfisher weighs about 0.018 kg and reaches about 16 cm in length.