Belted Kingfisher

Belted Kingfisher is fairly common along freshwater waterways throughout the county, but also common around the Bodega Bay area. Numbers increase during the winter months when migrants move down from the north. Usually solitary. Often seen perching on branches over water, searching for fish, frogs, small crustaceans, or other suitable food. May be seen hovering over water for the same purpose. Dives head-first after prey. Makes a distinctive, dry, clattering sound that can be heard over long distances. Formerly placed in the genus Ceryle. Older sources will refer to this bird as Ceryle alcyon.

Hard to mistake for any other bird, Belted Kingfisher is recognized by its very large head; long, heavy bill; and shaggy crest that usually looks like it's got a notch in the middle. Mostly slate blue, but with a thick white ring around the neck and a blue belt across the chest--hence the common name--and white underparts. Unlike most birds, the female is more brightly colored than the male, with rufous sides and a rufous band across the upper belly, both lacking in the male. In young females, like the bird pictured above, the rufous band on the belly may be incomplete. Note also the white spot just in front of the eye, present in both sexes. Distinctive flight style (uneven wingbeats, often described as suggesting the bird is "changing gears" ) may allow identification at great distances. Pale patch in wings at base of primaries may be visible in flight at closer ranges.

Known to breed along major waterways around the county and at Bodega Harbor. Nests in horizontal holes, usually in river banks. These are excavated by by the male and female, which share in caring for young. According to The Birder's Handbook, nests are usually 3-6 feet (0.9-1.8 meters) deep but may be as much as 15 feet (4.5 meters) deep. Prefers to dig in sandy soil.