The shining-blue kingfisher is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae. It is found in Equatorial Africa.
Region
Equatorial Africa
Typical Environment
Occurs in lowland rainforest streams from West Africa east through Nigeria, Cameroon, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon and the Congo Basin to western Uganda and northwestern Angola. It favors shaded, slow-flowing creeks, blackwater streams, and swamp-forest channels under intact canopy. Often confined to dense gallery forest within otherwise open landscapes. Generally avoids broad open rivers and heavily disturbed banks, choosing overhanging perches just above the water.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1500 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
A compact forest kingfisher, the shining-blue kingfisher lives along shaded streams where its vivid cobalt back and rich rufous underparts can be seen in brief flashes. It nests in burrows excavated into steep banks, with both adults sharing duties. Sensitive to forest clearing, it often persists only where dense riparian cover remains. Its sharp, high-pitched calls frequently reveal its presence before the bird is seen.
Subspecies A. q. quadribrachys (top) and A. q. guentheri (bottom); illustration by Keulemans, 1892
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low over water
Social Behavior
Typically seen alone or in pairs defending short stretches of shaded stream. Pairs are monogamous during the breeding season and excavate a tunnel in vertical banks where several eggs are laid. Both sexes incubate and feed the young, shuttling prey from nearby perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives sharp, high, piercing whistles and thin tseet calls, often delivered in flight along the stream. Vocalizations are brief but carry well through dense forest, aiding contact between mates.
