White-throated kingfisher

The interesting thing about this kingfisher is that it is the only* kingfisher that does not rely on fish for food but can eat anything from small lizards to insects. As such, it is frequently seen in India away from water bodies, and adding to its diversity of diet, is thriving here! :)

*Kookaburras in Australia are also classed as kingfishers so would count as another example! Thanks Barry! :)

comments (7)

Ferdy Christant

Lion

I did not know that, thanks for the educational moment! Posted 10 years ago
1. JohnR
  
  Lion
  
  Your welcome... :) Posted 10 years ago

Barry

Lion

Well, that is not strictly true: the Kookaburras in Australia are considered Kingfishers and they live in dry forest, grasslands, or even desert and don't eat fish. In addition, my entry to this list, the Green-backed KIngfisher, is also a forest dweller and eats reptiles and insects from the forest floor. There are others in Australia and South-east Asia. Perhaps you meant "in India"? Posted 8 years ago
1. JohnR
  
  Lion
  
  Hi Barry,
  
  I did mean in general, but I stand corrected! Thanks! :) I did not know about the Kookaburras being kingfishers... thanks! :) I am amending it now. :)
  
  Best,
  
  John Posted 8 years ago
2. 1. Barry
    
    Lion
    
    Well, and thank you for being so gracious about it! As a relative Newbie here, I am trying to be careful not to be obnoxious or rude and I have to say, everyone on this site is so nice, friendly, and helpful - it certainly doesn't match what people say about the internet or what you see on many sites. It is a real tribute to Ferdy and all of you that you don't see Trolls or meanness here and everyone is just so positive. This is how one imagines the internet SHOULD be! Oh and by the way - you have amazing photos. Your images and those of others here have inspired me to work harder on perfecting my pictures! Posted 8 years ago
  2. 1. JohnR
      
      Lion
      
      Hi Barry,
      
      No problem... I am by no means an expert, and as a scientist, I am trained to reassess my opinions upon gaining new information!
      
      And indeed, Ferdy has made a truly excellent platform here. :) No trolling, just sharing! :) Posted 8 years ago
    2. 1. Barry
        
        Lion
        
        Scientist, me too, what did you study? I studied Molecular Biology but have worked in the Pharma industry since 27 years. Posted 8 years ago

The White-throated kingfisher

The white-throated kingfisher, also known as the white-breasted kingfisher is a tree kingfisher, widely distributed in Asia from the Sinai east through the Indian subcontinent to the Philippines. This kingfisher is a resident over much of its range, although some populations may make short distance movements.

Info 63 1

Similar species: Kingfisher, Bee-eater, Rollers

Species identified by JohnR