Coraciiformes / Alcedinidae / Pelargopsis
Stork-billed Kingfisher
Pelargopsis capensis · 鹳嘴翡翠
Introduction
A large tree kingfisher widely but sparsely distributed in the tropical Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, from India to Indonesia. It inhabits streams and ponds in lowland areas with tree cover. Distinctive traits include a very large bright red bill and a labored, direct flight style. The species is sedentary throughout its range.
Description
Measures 35 cm (14 in) in length. Adults have a green back, blue wings and tail, and an olive-brown head. Underparts and neck are buff. The very large bill and legs are bright red. Sexes are similar in coloration. Thirteen subspecies are recognized, differing mostly in plumage detail; P. c. gigantea of the Sulu Archipelago has a white head, neck, and underparts.
Identification
Key marks include the very large bright red bill and legs, olive-brown head, green back, and blue wings. Flight is labored and flapping but direct. Vocalizations include a low, far-reaching peer-por-por repeated about every 5 seconds, and cackling ke-ke-ke-ke-ke-ke calls.
Distribution & Habitat
Range extends from India to Indonesia, including Nepal, Sri Lanka, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Myanmar, Indochina, Malay Peninsula, Sumatra, Borneo, Java, Bali, Flores, and the Philippines. Thirteen subspecies are recognized across these regions. Habitat includes well-wooded areas near lakes, rivers, or coasts in lowlands. The species is largely sedentary but may disperse in search of water during dry weather.
Behavior & Ecology
Perches quietly while seeking food, often remaining inconspicuous. Territorial and chases away eagles and other large predators. Diet consists of fish, frogs, crabs, rodents, young birds, and fruits. Nests are dug by both pair members in river banks, decaying trees, or tree termite nests. Excavation begins by striking soil in flight, followed by perching and pecking. Clutch size is typically two to five round white eggs, measuring 34–39 mm long and 29–32 mm wide.
Source: Wikipedia · CC BY-SA 3.0
Taxonomy
- Order
- Coraciiformes
- Family
- Alcedinidae
- Genus
- Pelargopsis
Vocalizations
Subspecies (13)
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Pelargopsis capensis burmanica
Myanmar to Thailand, Indochina, and southward to Isthmus of Kra
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.
