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About the Pied Kingfisher
The pied kingfisher is a striking black-and-white African kingfisher strongly associated with rivers, lakes, dams, estuaries and other open water. It is recognised by its bold pied plumage, long black crest and strong pointed bill. It is famous for hovering above water before diving headfirst to catch fish, although it also takes aquatic insects and other small prey. It is often seen singly, in pairs or in small groups and commonly hunts from exposed perches near water.
How to identify the Pied Kingfisher
Small black-and-white kingfisher with a large black crest, long black bill, white throat and breast, and dark eye stripe. Often hovers above water before plunging head-first to catch fish.
Did you know?
Pied Kingfishers are among the few kingfishers that regularly hover over open water before diving, allowing them to hunt efficiently even where suitable perches are scarce.
Also known as: Kingfisher, Bontvisvanger
Parks where you can see the Pied Kingfisher
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