What does the White-throated Kingfisher eat?

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

Diet overview

Carnivore/Insectivore. Primarily feeds on large insects (grasshoppers, crickets, beetles), small reptiles (lizards, snakes), amphibians (frogs), small rodents, and occasionally small fish, crabs, or even small birds.

How it forages

Perches conspicuously on branches, wires, or other elevated spots, scanning the ground or water below. It dives headfirst to catch prey, often from a considerable height. Terrestrial prey is typically caught by swooping down from a perch. Larger prey is often battered against a perch before consumption. It is less reliant on aquatic prey than many other kingfisher species.

When it feeds

Diurnal. Most active during the day, particularly in the early morning and late afternoon.

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