Alcedinidae

Kingfishers are small to medium-sized, brightly colored birds from the family Alcedinidae in the order Coraciiformes. They are found worldwide, primarily in tropical areas of Africa, Asia, and Oceania, but also in Europe and the Americas, typically near calm waters like ponds and small rivers. There are 118 species classified into three subfamilies and 19 genera. Kingfishers have large heads, pointed bills, short legs, and bright plumage, with small differences between sexes. While many are known for eating fish, several species consume small invertebrates and may not live near water. They nest in cavities, often dug into banks or within arboreal termite nests. Some species are at risk of extinction, while in Britain, “kingfisher” usually refers to the common kingfisher.