Photo: Francesco Veronesi from Italy · CC BY-SA 2.0 · source ↗
Half-collared Kingfisher
Bloukuifkopvisvanger · Alcedo semitorquata
A shy, deep-blue kingfisher of clear running rivers, larger than the Malachite and told apart by its all-black bill and blue crown. It sits quietly on branches over flowing water, dropping down to spear small fish. Fussy about clean streams, it is a good sign of a healthy river and a treat to find.
Log your Half-collared Kingfisher sighting — free →How to identify it
Like a big Malachite Kingfisher but with an all-black bill and a blue (not orange) crown, with a half blue collar on the neck.
Where to see it in Kruger
Sticks to clear, fast-flowing rivers and wooded streams, perching quietly on overhanging branches.
Did you know
It needs clean, clear streams to fish in, so spotting one means the river is healthy.
Often confused with
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