Sacred Kingfisher

The Sacred Kingfisher, known scientifically as Todiramphus sanctus, is a medium-sized bird that presents a striking blue-green to turquoise plumage on its upper parts, contrasted with white underparts and collar feathers. A distinctive black mask and buff lores adorn its face. Both sexes are similar in appearance, though females may appear greener and less vibrant. Juveniles can be identified by their buff or mottled brown edges on the collar, underparts, and upper-wing coverts. These birds typically measure 20–23 cm in length.

Identification Tips

When identifying the Sacred Kingfisher, look for its vibrant blue-green upper parts and stark white underparts. The black mask and buff lores are key features, along with the bird's overall medium size. Females may appear slightly duller than males, and juveniles will have buff or mottled brown edging on their feathers.

Habitat

The Sacred Kingfisher inhabits a variety of environments, including open eucalypt forests, melaleuca swamps, mangroves, mudflats, wetlands, and river or lake margins. It is also found in farmland, parks, and gardens. In New Zealand, the subspecies T. s. vagans may migrate from higher altitudes to the coast after breeding, and from forest to coast and open lands.

Distribution

This species is widespread across Australia, New Zealand, Lord Howe Island, Norfolk Island, New Guinea, eastern Indonesia, and parts of Melanesia. It breeds throughout much of Australia, New Zealand, New Caledonia, and locally in New Guinea. Southern Australian populations migrate northwards after the breeding season to New Guinea, the eastern Solomon Islands, and Indonesia.

Behaviour

The Sacred Kingfisher is known for its patient hunting strategy, often perching on a low branch and swooping down to capture prey with a brief landing or hover. After catching its meal, it returns to its perch to consume it.

Breeding

Breeding season for the Sacred Kingfisher spans from August to March, with the possibility of two broods. Nesting sites vary from river banks to hollow tree branches or termite mounds. Clutches typically consist of 3 to 6 glossy white eggs, which are incubated by both parents for 17–18 days. After hatching, both parents, and sometimes helpers, feed the nestlings for up to 4 weeks and continue care for an additional 7–10 days post-fledging.

Conservation Status

The Sacred Kingfisher is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List, with a population trend that is currently increasing.