You can find different species of Kingfishers all over the world but it is also a bird of India with 12 species living there divided into three families, tree, water or river, depending on their habitat and how they hunt. They are known for brilliant dives into the water to catch fish and for their large bills and different bright colouring. Here are some of the species you might look out for when next you go birdwatching in India.

Halcyon ріlеаtа or Blасk Cарреd Kіngfіѕhеr

This is a tree kingfisher that has an almost white throat, a red bill, a black cap and blue-purple wings. It likes the coast and mangroves but it can be seen further inland.    

Ceyx erithaca or Orіеntаl Dwаrf Kіngfіѕhеr

Also called the three-toes or black-backed kingfisher it is a tree kingfisher in lowland forests. It is smaller and is yellow and red with blue-black plumage.

Alcedo Meninting or Blue-eared Kingfisher ... Read more »