Wildlifeof Sri Lanka
White-throated Kingfisher
Kingfishers, Bee-eaters & Rollers
Photo: Vihansith Kulatunga · CC BY-SA 4.0 (May be cropped or resized)
Halcyon smyrnensis
Basic stats
Diet
Small reptiles, amphibians, crabs, small rodents and even birds
Habitat
Often well away from water
Range
Asia from Sinai east through the Indian subcontinent to China and Indonesia
The white-throated kingfisher, or white-breasted kingfisher, is a tree kingfisher widely distributed in Asia from Sinai east through the Indian subcontinent to China and Indonesia. It is resident over much of its range, though some populations move short distances. It is often found well away from water, where it takes a wide range of prey, including small reptiles, amphibians, crabs, small rodents and even birds (Wikipedia, general species account).
In the breeding season it calls loudly in the mornings from prominent perches, including roofs of buildings and wires in towns. Five subspecies are recognised, and fusca is listed for west India and Sri Lanka. Nationally Least Concern (Sri Lanka National Red List 2012).
Quick answers
- What does the White-throated Kingfisher eat?
- Small reptiles, amphibians, crabs, small rodents and even birds
- What habitat does the White-throated Kingfisher live in?
- Often well away from water
- Where is the White-throated Kingfisher found?
- Asia from Sinai east through the Indian subcontinent to China and Indonesia