The Bismarck kingfisher is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae that is endemic to Papua New Guinea.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago, Melanesia
Typical Environment
Found along lowland and foothill forest streams, creeks, and small rivers within intact primary and mature secondary rainforest. It favors heavily shaded watercourses with clear pools and overhanging vegetation for perching. Occurrence near mangrove edges and swamp-forest margins is occasional where fresh water meets brackish zones. It avoids open, deforested stretches and heavily disturbed waterways. Territories are typically linear, following stream corridors.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This tiny kingfisher is confined to the Bismarck Archipelago of Papua New Guinea and is closely tied to shaded forest streams. It prefers clear, slow-moving waters and is highly sensitive to siltation from logging. It nests in burrows excavated in stream banks. Habitat loss is the principal threat to the species.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats low over water
Social Behavior
Usually encountered alone or in pairs maintaining linear territories along streams. Breeding pairs excavate nesting burrows in vertical earth or sand banks close to water. Both sexes likely participate in incubation and chick rearing, with discreet movements to avoid predators.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, high-pitched whistles and thin metallic tseep notes from shaded perches. Calls are brief but can be repeated in series, often carrying along quiet forest streams.
Plumage
Compact, glossy plumage with bright cobalt-blue upperparts contrasting with rich rufous-orange underparts and a neat white throat.
Diet
Perch-hunts for small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans, sallying to the water’s surface to snatch prey. It also takes aquatic larvae and occasional tadpoles from shallow pools. Prey is typically subdued by striking it against a perch before swallowing.
Preferred Environment
Hunts from low, shaded perches over clear pools and slow runs, often under overhanging roots or branches. Uses stealth and short darts to capture prey in confined stream sections.
