What does the Malachite Kingfisher eat?

The Malachite Kingfisher's diet shapes where and when you'll find it. Understanding what it eats helps you predict where to look.

Diet overview

Carnivore (primarily piscivorous and insectivorous)

How it forages

Primarily a 'perch-and-dive' hunter. It perches on a low branch, reed, or rock overlooking the water, patiently scanning for prey. Once spotted, it dives headfirst into the water, catching fish or aquatic invertebrates with its bill. It then returns to its perch to consume the prey, often beating larger items against the perch. Diet consists mainly of small fish (up to 5 cm), aquatic insects (larvae and adults), crustaceans, and tadpoles.

When it feeds

Diurnal, most active during the cooler parts of the day, particularly early morning and late afternoon.

Explore the Malachite Kingfisher