The white-mantled kingfisher or New Britain kingfisher is a species of bird in the family Alcedinidae. It is endemic to New Britain off Papua New Guinea. Its natural habitat is tropical moist lowland forests.
Region
Bismarck Archipelago
Typical Environment
Occurs across New Britain in tropical moist lowland and foothill forests. It uses primary and well-structured secondary forest, favoring interior and edge habitats along streams, clearings, and old tracks. Birds typically hunt from low to mid-story perches, making short sallies to the ground or foliage. It avoids very open agricultural areas but may persist where forest patches remain.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 900 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Also called the New Britain kingfisher, this forest-dwelling species is largely terrestrial in its hunting habits despite the family name. It is easily recognized by its striking white mantle and head contrasting with deep blue wings and tail. It nests in tree cavities or arboreal termite mounds, and is sensitive to extensive lowland forest logging on New Britain.
Temperament
solitary and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with direct dashes between perches
Social Behavior
Usually encountered singly or in pairs holding territories in forested tracts. Pairs nest in natural tree cavities or excavate chambers in arboreal termite mounds; both sexes participate in excavation and incubation. Territory defense includes conspicuous calling from exposed perches.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A clear, far-carrying series of piping whistles delivered in measured sequences. Also gives sharp kik or chek notes and harsher scolds when agitated.
Plumage
Clean white head, mantle, and underparts contrasted by bright cobalt-blue wings and tail; back shows white mantle strongly set off against blue upperparts. A narrow dark loral line is often present. Feathers appear sleek and close-fitting with minimal spotting.
Diet
Primarily hunts large insects such as beetles, grasshoppers, and katydids, as well as spiders. It will also take small lizards and frogs when available. Prey is usually taken by perch-and-pounce, then subdued by beating against a branch before swallowing.
Preferred Environment
Forages from shaded perches in lowland forest interior, along edges, and near streams or forest tracks. Often uses mid-story vantage points 2–10 m above ground to scan leaf litter or understory foliage.
