A medium-sized water kingfisher native to North America, characterized by a large head, powerful bill, and distinctive blue-gray and white plumage.
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Ecology & Habitat
Habitat
Freshwater and coastal environments including rivers, streams, lakes, estuaries, and marine shorelines across North America, ranging from Alaska to Florida
Ecological Role
Key predator in aquatic ecosystems, controlling fish and aquatic invertebrate populations; indicator species for water quality and ecosystem health
Morphology
SKIN COATDense, water-resistant plumage; males blue-gray with white underparts, females have additional rusty-orange band across chest
LIMBS WINGSShort, sturdy legs; powerful wings for diving and hovering; specialized for kingfisher hunting techniques
HEAD SENSORYLarge, powerful bill for catching fish; prominent crest; acute vision adapted for underwater prey detection
BODY STRUCTURERobust body, approximately 28-35 cm in length, weighing 140-200 g, with large head relative to body size
Data Source: TaxonHub Database
Image Credit: en:User:Kevinlcole)
