Pied Kingfisher

The pied kingfisher is a water kingfisher widely distributed across Africa and Asia and the only member of its genus. Its black-and-white plumage and crest, and its habit of hovering over clear lakes and rivers before diving for fish, make it distinctive. Males have a double band across the breast, and females a single broken band. It is usually found in pairs or small family groups, and when perched often bobs its head and flicks up its tail (Wikipedia, general species account).

Five subspecies are recognised. Nationally Least Concern (Sri Lanka National Red List 2012).