Where does the Blue-eared Kingfisher live?
Alcedo meninting
Spotted a bird? Identify it instantly with the Birdby app
Open the appThe Blue-eared Kingfisher lives in specific habitats and regions. Knowing where, and when, to look improves your chances of a successful sighting.
Biomes
Tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests, mangroves, freshwater wetlands, rivers, streams, and lakes.
Geographic range
Indian subcontinent (parts of India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka), Southeast Asia (Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Brunei, Philippines).
Preferred environments
Clear, slow-moving or still freshwater bodies with overhanging vegetation, dense riparian forests, mangrove creeks, and shaded streams. Requires perches for hunting and soft banks for nesting.
Elevation range
Typically found from sea level up to 1,000 meters, occasionally higher.
Where to look
Shaded Forest Streams
Often found along clear, slow-moving streams and small rivers within dense tropical or subtropical forests, especially those with overhanging vegetation.
Mangrove Creeks
In coastal areas, they inhabit mangrove forests, hunting in the tidal creeks and estuaries.
Lakes and Ponds
Can be found around the edges of freshwater lakes and ponds, particularly those with good tree cover.
Botanical Gardens/Parks
Occasionally seen in well-vegetated urban parks or botanical gardens that have suitable water bodies.
Field tips
- Patience and Stealth. Blue-eared Kingfishers are shy and easily disturbed. Approach quietly and slowly, and be prepared to wait patiently near suitable water bodies.
- Look for Perches. Scan low-hanging branches, exposed roots, or rocks near the water's edge, as these are favored hunting perches.
- Follow the Call. Their sharp calls can often lead you to their location, especially when they are flying or agitated.
- Early Morning/Late Afternoon. These are typically the most active feeding times, increasing your chances of observation.
- Binoculars Essential. Due to their small size and often cryptic nature, good binoculars are crucial for detailed observation and identification.
Migration
Mostly resident throughout its range, with some local movements in response to food availability or habitat changes.
Explore the Blue-eared Kingfisher
Identify birds anywhere
Free on iOS, Android, and Web. Photo & sound identification, full species database, and your personal life list.