The brown-breasted kingfisher is a tree kingfisher endemic to the Philippines, where it is widely distributed. This kingfisher is a resident over much of its range.
Region
Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Endemic to the Philippines, occurring on most major islands and many smaller ones. It occupies a wide range of lowland habitats including secondary forest, forest edge, mangroves, agricultural land, and suburban gardens. The species is often common in rice-growing areas and along coastal belts. It is usually found near clearings, open country with scattered trees, and along streams or fishponds, but it is not restricted to water. Tolerance of human presence allows it to persist in semi-urban environments.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, this kingfisher often hunts away from water, taking insects, lizards, and small vertebrates from fields, gardens, and forest edges. It is closely related to the White-throated Kingfisher but differs in having a brown breast and slightly different head and throat pattern. Bold and conspicuous, it frequently perches on wires and exposed branches. It adapts well to human-modified habitats across much of the Philippines.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
strong flier with rapid, direct wingbeats
Social Behavior
Typically seen singly or in pairs holding territories year-round. Pairs nest in burrows excavated in earthen banks, termite mounds, or occasionally in rotten tree stubs. Both sexes participate in excavation and incubation, and they aggressively defend nest sites.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing series of sharp kek-kek-kek notes, often delivered from an exposed perch. Also gives rattling trills and harsh, scolding calls during territorial disputes.
