Red-bearded Bee-eater
Nyctyornis amictus
赤须夜蜂虎
Introduction
A large species of bee-eater (Nyctyornis amictus) found in southern Myanmar, the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra and nearby smaller islands. Inhabits openings in patches of dense forest. Distinguished by its predominantly green plumage and striking red face coloration that extends to throat feathers forming a distinctive beard-like patch. Unlike many bee-eaters, this species typically hunts alone or in pairs rather than in flocks.
Description
A large, colorful bee-eater with predominantly green plumage. Features include a long, decurved beak, long tail, and pointed wings. The most distinctive feature is the extensive red coloration on the face that extends onto the slightly hanging throat feathers, creating a 'beard' effect. The eyes are orange. Like other bee-eaters, it possesses a streamlined shape adapted for aerial insect hunting.
Identification
Distinguished from other bee-eaters by its large size and the extensive red face and throat coloration. The orange eyes and predominantly green plumage are also characteristic field marks.
Distribution & Habitat
Found in southern Myanmar, the Thai-Malay Peninsula, Borneo, Sumatra and nearby smaller islands. Inhabits openings and edges within patches of dense forest. No information available regarding migration patterns.
Behavior & Ecology
Diet consists primarily of insects, especially bees, wasps, and hornets. Hunts by perching concealed in foliage and pursuing prey in flight, remaining motionless for extended periods before attacking. Typically hunts alone or in pairs rather than in flocks. Breeds by nesting in burrows excavated into sandy banks, but unlike other bee-eaters, does not form colonies.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Taxonomy
- Order
- Coraciiformes
- Family
- Meropidae
- Genus
- Nyctyornis
- eBird Code
- rbbeat1
Distribution
Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, and Borneo
Vocalizations
Data Sources
Species description from Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Bird images and sounds sourced from GBIF, contributed by citizen scientists worldwide under Creative Commons licenses.
Taxonomy data from AviList 2025.