Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
The kingfisher is one of the most colourful birds in the Netherlands. With its bright blue back and wings, orange breast and white throat, it immediately catches the eye. Despite its exotic appearance, it simply lives along clear ditches, rivers and lakes in our own country.
It is a true fish-eater: it often sits motionless on a branch above the water, waiting. As soon as it spots a fish, it dives down to catch its prey with lightning speed. With its short tail and quick wing beats, it then shoots away again like a blue-orange flash.
The kingfisher breeds in self-dug burrows in steep banks. There it raises several young, which become independent after only a few weeks.
The presence of the kingfisher is a sign of clean water and a healthy habitat.
Details:
Length: about 16-18 cm
Food: mainly small fish and water insects
Habitat: clear, fish-rich water with sheltered banks
"Passion for Light
I am Wilbert Heijkoop and I am 35 years old. I have a great passion for nature and wildlife photography. I really enjoy going out with the camera and capture amazing landscapes or special encounters with animals...
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Germany
Germany
Netherlands
Germany
Germany
Germany
Germany
Netherlands
Germany
Germany
Netherlands
Netherlands