The blue-capped kingfisher, also known as Hombron's kingfisher, is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae endemic to the Philippines and found only on Mindanao. It is one of the most colorful kingfishers in the country having a dark blue cap and wings with rufous spots, a striped rufous belly, white chin and red bill. Its natural habitats are on the upper ranges of tropical moist lowland forest and tropical moist montane forests. It is threatened by habitat loss and its population is declining.
Region
Mindanao, Philippines
Typical Environment
Occupies the upper ranges of lowland evergreen forest and montane forest, favoring mature primary forest and well-developed secondary growth. Often keeps to shaded ravines, stream gullies, and steep slopes where dense understory provides cover. It perches quietly a few meters above the ground, making short sallies to the leaf litter or low branches. The species is highly sensitive to extensive forest degradation and is uncommon in heavily disturbed areas.
Altitude Range
400–1800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called Hombron's kingfisher, this elusive forest kingfisher is found only on Mindanao in the southern Philippines. It prefers dim, undisturbed interior forest and is often detected more by its clear, whistled calls than by sight. Habitat loss from logging, mining, and agriculture is its principal threat. Two subspecies are recognized, differing slightly in tone and pattern.
An illustration by John Gould
Male
Temperament
shy and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, direct flights between shaded perches
Social Behavior
Usually solitary or in pairs within well-forested territories. Nests are believed to be burrows excavated in earthen banks, road cuts, or steep stream sides, typical of many kingfishers. Both parents likely share incubation and chick-rearing duties.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, ringing whistles and short series of mellow notes, often at dawn or from concealed perches. Calls may carry far through the forest but the bird remains difficult to see.
