The malachite kingfisher is a river kingfisher which is widely distributed in Africa south of the Sahara. It is largely resident except for seasonal climate-related movements.
Region
Sub-Saharan Africa
Typical Environment
Found along slow-flowing rivers, lakes, ponds, marshes, swamps, and irrigation canals with overhanging vegetation or reedbeds. It favors papyrus-lined waterbodies and quiet backwaters rather than fast torrents. Common around human-made dams and rice fields if clear water and suitable perches are present. Avoids very arid zones and heavily polluted or treeless shores.
Altitude Range
0–2000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A tiny, brilliantly colored river kingfisher, the malachite kingfisher is widespread across sub‑Saharan Africa and closely tied to fresh water. It nests in burrows tunneled into sandy or earthen banks, where both parents incubate and feed the young. From low perches, it dives to snatch small fish and aquatic invertebrates, often returning to the perch to beat prey before swallowing. It is largely resident but makes local seasonal movements with water availability.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, fast and low over water
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs along a defended stretch of water. Breeds in tunnels excavated into vertical banks; both sexes dig, incubate, and feed nestlings. Courtship often includes mutual calling and fish offerings.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
Gives a sharp, high-pitched seee or tsip in flight and a rapid series of thin piping notes when excited. Vocalizations are piercing and carry well over water, often given during territorial chases.
Plumage
Glossy metallic blue to malachite upperparts with darker spotting on the crown, rufous underparts, and a clean white throat and neck patch. The crown often shows a small blue crest, and the back and rump are intense cobalt-blue. Feathers are compact and sleek, aiding in swift, direct flight over water.
Diet
Takes small fish, aquatic insects (such as dragonfly larvae), crustaceans, and tadpoles. Hunts from low perches just above the water, diving headfirst to seize prey with the bill. Prey is usually beaten against the perch and swallowed head-first. It will occasionally take terrestrial insects near the water’s edge.
Preferred Environment
Feeds along vegetated shorelines, among reeds and papyrus, and at the edges of ponds, dams, and slow streams. Often uses exposed twigs, reed stems, or posts as hunting perches near clear, shallow water.
