Alcedo atthis (Linnaeus, 1758) · rybárik riečny · Common Kingfisher

Distribution

The Common Kingfisher occurs in Europe, North Africa and much of Asia. In Slovakia it breeds regularly beside suitable waters, particularly at low and middle elevations. It is scattered and locally common along favourable stretches, but is not present on every river. It occurs throughout the year; in winter it moves to unfrozen waters, and severe winters can greatly reduce its numbers.

Habitat

It seeks streams, rivers, side channels and still waters holding small fish. Branches or other perches above the water are useful, as are steep earth or sandy banks for nesting. Its presence is most often revealed by a sharp whistle and a low, direct flight over the water.

Breeding

Both partners excavate a tunnel in a bank, ending in a nesting chamber. The female usually lays five to seven white eggs. Both parents share the care of the brood, and under favourable conditions a pair can nest repeatedly in one season.

Food

It mainly catches small fish, with aquatic invertebrates forming a smaller part of its diet. It watches the water from a perch and plunges below the surface after prey. It often handles the catch by striking it against a branch.

Interesting fact

It generally swallows a fish head first. This simple manoeuvre aligns the fins and scales with the direction of swallowing. Watching carefully from a distance, you may see the kingfisher turn its catch in its bill before eating it.

Sources: Slovak Wikipedia · BTO BirdFacts · English Wikipedia