About the Black-capped Kingfisher
The black-capped kingfisher is a tree kingfisher which is widely distributed in tropical Asia from India east to China, Korea and Southeast Asia. This most northerly of the tree kingfishers is resident over much of its range, but northern populations are migratory, wintering south of their range in Sri Lanka, Thailand, Borneo and Java. It is distinctive in having a black cap that contrasts with the whitish throat, purple-blue wings and the coral red bill. The species is mainly found in coastal and mangrove habitats but can sometimes be found far inland.
Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
ID tip
This kingfisher is about 28 centimetres (11 in) long. The adult has purple-blue wings and back, black head and shoulders, white neck collar and throat, and rufous underparts. The large bill and legs are bright red. In flight, large white patches or "mirrors" at the base of the primaries are visible on the blue and black wings. Sexes are similar, but juveniles are a duller version of the adult and show streaks on the throat. The call of this kingfisher is a cackling ki-ki-ki-ki-ki. Usually seen on coastal waters and especially in mangroves, it is easily disturbed.
Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.
Where the Black-capped Kingfisher lives
When to see the Black-capped Kingfisher
Peak activity in January · a winter visitor species across most of its range
Easily confused with
Grey-headed KingfisherHalcyon leucocephalaThe sexes are similar.
Blue-breasted KingfisherHalcyon malimbicaThe blue-breasted kingfisher is a tree kingfisher widely distributed across Equatorial Africa.
Ruddy KingfisherHalcyon coromandaReaching approximately 25 cm, the ruddy kingfisher has a very large, bright red bill and equally red legs.
Learn the Black-capped Kingfisher in BeakBrain
Photo and call practice, free in any browser.
Play BeakBrainEvery photo and recording on this page is credited to its author under the licence shown. Spotted a problem with this page, or have a better photo? Contribute.