Belted Kingfisher

(Cerle alcyon)

 

A female Belted Kingfisher hovers over Crissy Marsh.

Will Elder, NPS

 

Natural History: The Belted Kingfisher's diet primarily consists of small fish, which it dives for from above the water. It will occasionally eat invertebrates, lower vertebrates, and young birds and mice. It is found near water, where it hunts. This bird typically nests in small tunnels excavated in perpendicular banks.

General Distribution: In the Presidio, this species is found near water, particularly near Crissy Marsh, but also along the open coast.

Frequency: This species is common in all seasons except the summer.

Identifying Characteristics: This species has a long, pointed beak, a dark blue head and a white throat with a slate blue chest band. Females have a rust belly band and sides.

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