Water birds
Belted Kingfisher
Megaceryle alcyon
The belted kingfisher is a large, conspicuous water kingfisher, native to North America.
Blue-gray with a big shaggy crest and a blue breast band; females also have a rusty band.
- Scientific name
- Megaceryle alcyon
- Group
- Water birds
- Main color
- Blue
- Conservation (IUCN)
- Least concern
Size and shape
The belted kingfisher is a stocky, medium-sized bird that measures from 28–35 cm (11–14 in) in length with a wingspan from 48–58 cm (19–23 in).
Diet
It also eats amphibians, molluscs, small crustaceans, insects, small mammals, small birds, reptiles, and berries.
Range and habitat
The only kingfisher in the majority of its range, the belted kingfisher's breeding habitat is near inland bodies of waters or coasts across most of North America, within Canada and the United States including Alaska.
Voice
Belted kingfishers can fly up to 45 miles per hour (72km/h) and can dive into the water at 25 miles per hour (40km/h) while catching its prey As the kingfisher flies about its habitat, it frequently emits a characteristic rattling call.
More photos
Belted Kingfisher FAQ
How big is the Belted Kingfisher?
The belted kingfisher is a stocky, medium-sized bird that measures from 28–35 cm (11–14 in) in length with a wingspan from 48–58 cm (19–23 in).
What does the Belted Kingfisher eat?
It also eats amphibians, molluscs, small crustaceans, insects, small mammals, small birds, reptiles, and berries.
How do I identify a Belted Kingfisher?
Blue-gray with a big shaggy crest and a blue breast band; females also have a rusty band.
Where does the Belted Kingfisher live?
The only kingfisher in the majority of its range, the belted kingfisher's breeding habitat is near inland bodies of waters or coasts across most of North America, within Canada and the United States including Alaska.
Is the Belted Kingfisher endangered?
No. The IUCN Red List rates the Belted Kingfisher as least concern (status read from Wikidata).
Facts on this page are summarized from the Wikipedia article on the Belted Kingfisher (read October 27, 2026) and conservation status from Wikidata. Quick ID notes are Birdstagram's own summary.