The green-backed kingfisher is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae endemic to Indonesia, where it is restricted to north and central Sulawesi, and the islands of Manadotua and Lembeh. It can be found in the protected areas of Lore Lindu, Bogani Nani Wartabone, and Tangkoko Batuangus.
Region
Wallacea (Sulawesi, Indonesia)
Typical Environment
Occupies primary and mature secondary evergreen rainforest, especially along shaded streams, ravines, and gullies. Prefers dense understory and midstory perches from which it hunts to the forest floor. It is most frequent in lowlands and foothills and is scarce in heavily degraded or open habitats. The species persists most reliably inside well-protected forest blocks and national parks.
Altitude Range
0–1100 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
This forest kingfisher is restricted to Sulawesi and a few nearby islands in Indonesia and favors intact lowland and hill rainforest. It is often heard before seen, giving clear, whistled notes at dawn from shaded perches. It nests by tunneling into earthen banks or similar substrates, and is sensitive to forest fragmentation. Protected areas like Lore Lindu, Bogani Nani Wartabone, and Tangkoko Batuangus provide key refuges.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats through forest understory
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs, holding territories along forested streams and in dense ravines. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season. They excavate burrows in earthen banks or similar soft substrates, and both parents feed the young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives clear, whistled notes and piping phrases, often delivered at dawn from concealed perches. Calls can be repeated in steady series and travel well through dense forest.
