The photos of this North American bird (Megaceryle alcyon) are again by Stephen Barnard. Note that one has a fish (click to enlarge):
They seem to be chasing each other around, but don’t ask me why. Are they trying to steal each other’s fish?
Belted kingfishers
September 15, 2013 • 10:38 pm
Different plumages (differing areas of the orange-red breast/ flank feathers), so I infer differing genders and a nuptial gift or bonding display between potential mates?
Eagle pairs do that with each other too.
Those are fabulous shots.
We have kingfishers in our area (southwestern ontario) and our local species has the ability to discern what lens you are using on the camera that day and stay just outside of effective range.
I have never really gotten a good kingfisher shot.
I think this was a mating ritual, but it seems like an odd time of year for it.
Since they’re both females (males lack the red) and the red on the hind bird’s breast is not as well developed, my guess is that it’s a young bird chasing an older one – perhaps the lead bird’s offspring is still expecting Mom to feed it, and still learning how to catch its own fish.
great photos! i’ve always loved watching kingfishers fly, especially the straight vertical drop when they go after the fish.
CURIOUS: Where were those photos taken?? It looks almost exactly like southern Idaho, near a town called Picabo. Right now is about time for the kestrels to pass through on their migratory path.
It’s taken on a ranch about four miles east of Picabo.
Oops. It’s WEST of Picabo.
Zing!
Yeah I suppose I should have had more confidence in my spotting abilities, as I commuted from Carey (ranch) to Ketchum (house/school) 100s of times over the years.
Great light on Silver Creek. This was Hemmingway’s favorite spot to fish, and with good reason.
Tx for the reply!
You may be familiar with The Nature Conservancy’s Silver Creek Preserve. My ranch is just across Highway 20 to the north. Loving Creek flows through it.
Or, maybe the likelihood that the one with the fish will drop it in flight is sufficiently great that it’s worth it to follow behind vs. trying to get one from the water?
Belted Kingfishers. Lovely. We have them every summer on our pond. I’ve seen the plunge and come up with fish many times. I love their raucos calls as well. Wonderful birds.