The lazuli kingfisher is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae. It can be found on the islands of Seram, Ambon and Haruku. Found singly and in pairs in lowland wooded areas, including cultivated areas and mangroves. Pale blue underside is unique among kingfishers in its limited south Moluccan range. Rowdy vocalizations include repetitive "ker-chick" series and "ki-ki-ki-ki…" calls. It gets its name due to its colour being reminiscent of Lapis Lazuli.
Region
Maluku Islands
Typical Environment
Occurs in coastal and lowland wooded habitats, especially mangroves, river edges, coconut groves, and secondary forest. It also uses gardens and cultivated areas with scattered trees. Birds perch prominently on exposed branches, wires, or mangrove roots, scanning for prey before sallying to the ground or water edge. It favors habitat mosaics with both cover and open foraging space. Proximity to brackish creeks and estuaries is common, but it also ranges inland along streams.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 800 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Endemic to the South Moluccan islands of Seram, Ambon, and Haruku, this kingfisher is notable for its pale blue underparts, unusual within the group. It was formerly lumped within the Collared Kingfisher complex and is now recognized as a distinct species based on plumage and vocal differences. Its name references the gemstone lapis lazuli, reflecting its vivid blue tones.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct, purposeful flight
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs that hold and defend territories year-round. Pairs perch conspicuously and perform display flights and calling duets along boundaries. Nests are typically excavated in arboreal termite nests or natural cavities in decayed wood.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Vocalizations are loud and ringing, including repetitive ker-chick notes and rapid ki-ki-ki-ki series. Calls carry far across mangroves and open edges and are often given from exposed perches.
Plumage
Glossy azure-blue upperparts with a narrow white collar and pale blue underparts; dark mask through the eye contrasts with a whitish throat. Feathers are smooth and compact, giving a sleek, clean-edged appearance.
Diet
Takes a variety of small prey, including crabs and other crustaceans, large insects, small lizards, and occasionally small fish. Hunts by watch-and-pounce from a perch, dropping to the ground, mudflats, or shallow water to seize prey. Prey is typically beaten against a perch before swallowing.
Preferred Environment
Forages along mangrove channels, estuaries, coastal scrub, and forest edges, as well as gardens and plantations with scattered trees. Frequently uses low exposed perches over water or open ground.
