3 minute read
BELTED KINGFISHERS
By Laura Carberry, Director of Properties
Recognized for their dramatic appearance and distinctive fishing habits, Belted Kingfishers (Megacerylealcyon) are striking birds commonly found in Rhode Island. They can be spotted in a variety of habitats ranging from freshwater lakes and rivers to coastal regions.
A relatively large bird with a spiky crest atop its head, the Belted Kingfisher has a large straight bill designed for catching prey. The species is hard to miss due to its bold appearance and distinctive call. Plumage is a mix of blue and white, with males having a simple blue-gray color and females boasting a vibrant rusty orange belt across their chests. This is one species in which the female’s plumage is showier than the males.
Their call is a loud, harsh, rattling noise, often heard when the bird is flying or perched in its territory. These vocalizations serve to communicate with other kingfishers and to establish territorial boundaries. While they may not be known for melodious songs, their calls are easily recognizable in their habitats.
True to its name, the Belted Kingfisher is an expert fisherman. It primarily feeds on fish, which it catches by diving headfirst into the water from a perch, often high above a river or lake. Their sharp vision can spot prey from impressive distances and helps them dive with accuracy, making them formidable predators.
Once a kingfisher locates its target, it dives at speeds up to 36 miles per hour, breaking the surface of the water with minimal resistance. Its long bill is used to spear fish with precision. Their ability to locate, dive, and capture prey with remarkable speed and efficiency is one of the bird’s most notable adaptations.
Unlike many birds that nest in trees or shrubs, Belted Kingfishers create their nests in burrows. They excavate tunnels in riverbanks, up to eight feet deep, to create a safe place for their young. The tunnel often ends in a small chamber where the female lays eggs. This nesting behavior is vital to protecting the eggs and chicks from predators and extreme weather.
As top predators in their ecosystem, Belted Kingfishers are often considered indicators of environmental health. The availability of fish in an area directly influences their presence, meaning that healthy aquatic ecosystems are critical for their survival. Changes in water quality or availability of food can have a significant impact on kingfisher populations.
Watch for Belted Kingfishers at Fisherville Brook, Emilie Ruecker and Touisset Marsh Wildlife Refuges from spring through fall.
