Belted Kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon)

 

   

• HABITAT - Other than the northern most reaches, the Belted Kingfisher breeds in the lakes, streams and saltwater estuaries throughout the United States and Canada. They nest in burrows that they dig into soft earthen banks, usually near or directly over water. Kingfishers spend winters in areas where the water doesn’t freeze so that they have continual access to their aquatic foods.
• DIET -Belted Kingfisher’s diet is almost entirely of small fish, but they will also consume crabs, crayfish, salamanders and insects. Squid and oysters are also eaten in their marine habitats.
• FACTS - They can be often be seen perched on an overhanging branch surveying the water for prey. At other times the Kingfisher will hover over the water, bill downward and then dive head first into the water to capture the fish in its powerful bill.