Belted Kingfisher look-alikes
Megaceryle alcyon
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Open the appSeveral birds can be mistaken for the Belted Kingfisher. Compare the key differences below to confirm your sighting.
Birds to compare
Green Kingfisher
Chloroceryle americana
Key differences
Much smaller (about half the size) than the Belted Kingfisher. Green Kingfishers are iridescent green above and white below with a rufous breast band in males (females have green spots on the breast). They lack the prominent crest of the Belted Kingfisher.
Ringed Kingfisher
Megaceryle torquata
Key differences
Significantly larger than the Belted Kingfisher. Ringed Kingfishers have a rufous belly and breast (males have a single rufous band, females have a second white band), and a less shaggy crest. Their range is primarily south of the Belted Kingfisher's, though there is some overlap in southern Texas and Mexico.
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