The chocolate-backed kingfisher is a species of kingfisher in the subfamily Halcyoninae which occurs in western Sub-Saharan Africa.
Region
West and Central African rainforests
Typical Environment
Occurs from the Upper Guinea forests of Sierra Leone, Liberia, and Côte d’Ivoire east through southern Nigeria and Cameroon into the Lower Guinea region, including Gabon and the Congo Basin. It inhabits primary and mature secondary lowland rainforest, forest edges, and light gaps. Usually keeps to the midstory and subcanopy, perching quietly before sallying for prey. While sometimes found near streams, it is not dependent on aquatic habitats.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1200 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Despite its name, this forest kingfisher is not tied to rivers and often hunts far from water. It frequently nests in arboreal termite mounds, excavating a tunnel with its powerful bill. A flash of bright blue from the rump against rich brown upperparts is a key field mark when it darts through the canopy.
Temperament
quiet, shy, and secretive
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with swift, direct dashes through forest gaps
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs holding well-defined territories. Pairs are monogamous and cooperate in nesting and rearing young. Nests are commonly excavated in arboreal termite mounds; both sexes participate in excavation and incubation.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A series of clear, high-pitched whistles, sometimes accelerating or slightly descending. Pairs often duet at dawn, with phrases carrying well in dense forest.
