White-throated Kingfisher
Halcyon smyrnensis
The White-throated Kingfisher is a large, spectacular bird with a massive crimson bill, rich chocolate-brown head, white throat shield, and brilliant electric-turquoise back and wings.
Species Ecological Profile
Sourced from high-confidence eBird and regional field surveys
Lakeshore wetlands, marshes, stream inlets, crop fields, forest clearings, and wooded gardens. Not strictly tied to water and often hunts in dry forests.
Highly opportunistic carnivore. Feeds on small fish, tadpoles, freshwater crabs, lizards, rodents, earthworms, grasshoppers, and large beetles.
Resident. Stays near the Naukuchiatal lake margins year-round.
March to July. Both parents excavate a horizontal tunnel (50-80cm deep) in sandy or clay mud embankments, ending in a wide, unlined nesting chamber.
Extremely prominent around the lake. Can be seen perched on telephone wires, wooden boat docks, and willow branches overhanging the Naukuchiatal waters.
Photographic Log
Visual field records captured in Naukuchiatal (Click to enlarge)
