Songbirds

Belted Kingfisher

Megaceryle alcyon

A stocky, large-headed bird with a shaggy crest and a long, dagger-like bill. Females are more colorful than males, sporting an extra rusty belly band — unusual among birds.

Current regional viewing notes

Along streams, rivers, and coastline near Hoonah; often seen perched on wires or branches overlooking water near the harbor.

Dataset note: This legacy field can be specific to Southeast Alaska/Hoonah and is not a complete statewide range statement.

Habitat

Streams, rivers, lakes, estuaries, and sheltered coastlines.

Diet

Small fish caught by plunge-diving; also crayfish, insects, and amphibians.

Natural history note

The Belted Kingfisher is one of the few bird species where the female is more brightly colored than the male, sporting a chestnut belly band the male lacks.