View range map for Belted Kingfisher

The Belted Kingfisher inhabits river banks, streams and lake shores across North America. From Alaska and Canada populations migrate to South America, while populations in the United States, as far north as ice free waters remain, are resident year round. This large, striking kingfisher is slate blue with a large crest. A large blue/ gray band under the white neck collar is distinctive on the male, the female also has rufous coloring on the belly. Aquatic habitats with abundant prey, such as rivers, lakes and streams with soft banks for nesting are used during the breeding season. In winter, Belted Kingfishers may hunt along tropical marshes, swamps and bayous, and coastal areas. Belted Kingfishers hunt for fish from a perch over the water, usually a tree or utility line, fence or other structure along the shoreline. Once they capture their prey with their long beak, they carry it to a perch and pound it against the branch to stun it. The fish is then swallowed head first. Belted Kingfishers also sometimes hover over the water seeking prey. The birds also occasionally eat small birds, mammals and reptiles. The birds disgorge indigestible parts of their meal. Belted Kingfishers make a characteristic rattling call, whenever disturbed. The birds are highly territorial year round, and make loud protest at any invaders. Belted Kingfishers are seasonally monogamous. The male courtship involves the presentation of a fish to the female. Excavation of nesting burrows begins during courtship, with the male doing most of the excavations. The nest burrow extends 3-6 feet into the bank and slopes slightly upwards. Belted Kingfishers prefer sandy soils which are easier to excavate. The pair may begin several burrows, but only one is used. Incubation of the 6-7 white eggs is carried out by both parents for about 24 days. The female broods the chicks for the first 3-4 days after hatching, while the male brings food to the nest. The chicks fledge after about 34 days and the parents then teach them to fish for themselves. At first the parents throw dead fish into the water and the chicks retrieve them. Once they can fish themselves the chicks are driven from the territory. Belted Kingfishers are less susceptible to pollution than other fish eating bird species, as they eat small species only which have lower concentrations of contaminants. Populations show no long term changes in numbers.