The sombre kingfisher is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae. It is endemic to island of Halmahera, in North Maluku, Indonesia.
Region
North Maluku (Moluccas)
Typical Environment
This species is confined to the island of Halmahera, where it inhabits lowland and foothill evergreen forests. It favors forest interior, edges, and riparian corridors, often perching quietly in shaded midstory. It may use selectively logged or secondary forest if canopy structure remains. Occasional records come from forested gardens or agroforestry mosaics near intact habitat.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The sombre kingfisher is a forest-dwelling kingfisher found only on Halmahera in North Maluku, Indonesia. It is often heard before it is seen, giving mellow, mournful whistles from shaded perches. Like many island endemics, it is susceptible to habitat loss from logging and forest conversion.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats between perches
Social Behavior
Typically encountered singly or in pairs, maintaining territories in mature forest. Nests are likely placed in tree cavities or arboreal termite mounds, as in many Todiramphus kingfishers. Pair bonds are monogamous during the breeding season, with both adults involved in nesting and care.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Gives mellow, plaintive whistles and piping notes that carry through the forest. Calls are often delivered from a concealed perch and repeated in slow sequences.
Plumage
Dull, dusky-brown to olive-brown upperparts with a paler, buff-washed underside and slightly darker breast sides. Throat and upper chest are paler, forming a subtle contrast with the face. Feathers are smooth and plain with minimal gloss.
Diet
Feeds on large insects (beetles, orthopterans), spiders, and other arthropods. Also takes small vertebrates such as lizards, frogs, and occasionally small fish or crabs when near water. Prey is usually spotted from a perch and seized in a swift sally to the ground, foliage, or water edge.
Preferred Environment
Hunts from mid-level perches inside forest and along shady forest edges. Frequently forages along streams, clearings, and gaps where prey is more visible, but retreats to cover between sallies.
