The cerulean kingfisher is a kingfisher in the subfamily Alcedininae which is native to parts of Indonesia. With an overall metallic blue impression, it is very similar to the common kingfisher, but it is white underneath instead of orange. Males average bluer than females, which have a greenish cast. It is sometimes called the small blue kingfisher but in Indonesia and parts of Asia that name refers to Alcedo atthis.
Region
Sunda Islands, Maritime Southeast Asia
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly on Indonesia’s Java, Bali, and adjacent small islands, frequenting coastal and lowland wetlands. Typical habitats include mangroves, estuaries, tidal creeks, fish ponds, rice paddies, and slow-flowing canals and streams. It often uses low exposed perches over water and avoids dense interior forests. Nesting typically takes place in burrows excavated in sandy or earthen banks near water.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A small, coastal kingfisher endemic to Indonesia, it closely resembles the common kingfisher but has clean white underparts instead of orange. Males are typically brighter blue, while females can show a greener cast. It favors mangroves, tidal creeks, and rice fields, often perching low over water before making quick dives. Despite local habitat pressures, it is generally considered not at risk.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats in low, direct flights over water
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, defending short stretches of shoreline or creek. Pairs excavate a burrow nest in an earthen or sandy bank near water and share incubation and chick-rearing duties. Courtship includes perch displays and food offerings.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are sharp, high-pitched whistles and thin tseet calls, often given in flight. Songs are simple and brief; most notes carry well over open water and mangroves.
Plumage
Metallic cerulean-blue upperparts with a glossy blue crown and mantle; underparts are clean white from throat to belly. Often shows small blue patches at the breast sides and a narrow pale collar. Bill is long, straight, and dark; legs are bright to orange-red.
Diet
Takes small fish, aquatic insects, and crustaceans, with occasional tadpoles and other small aquatic prey. Hunts from low perches, plunging headfirst to snatch prey near the surface. Prey is usually beaten against the perch before swallowing.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along mangrove edges, tidal creeks, brackish estuaries, fish ponds, rice paddies, and quiet streams. Prefers clear or gently flowing waters with ample low perches such as roots, stakes, or overhanging branches.
