Australian Birds - Sacred Kingfisher

Описание: This bird is a Sacred Kingfisher (Todiramphus sanctus).

The Sacred Kingfisher is a common sight across most of Australia and is often spotted perched on fences, powerlines, or low branches while hunting.
Key Identification Features

• Blue-Green Plumage: They have a distinctive turquoise-blue back and wings. Depending on the lighting (as seen in your photo), the blue can look quite deep or more greenish.

• The "Collar": A prominent cream or buff-colored band wraps around the neck, which is why it’s often confused with the "Collared Kingfisher" (though the Sacred is much more common in suburban areas).

• The Mask: A thick black stripe runs through the eye, extending from the bill to the back of the head.

• Bill Shape: It has a long, sturdy black bill designed for "sally-pouncing"—diving down to the ground to grab insects, small reptiles, or crustaceans.

Sacred vs. Forest Kingfisher
Your bird is likely a Sacred Kingfisher rather than the very similar Forest Kingfisher because:

• The Underside: The Sacred Kingfisher typically has a "buff" (pale orangey-cream) wash on its chest and collar, whereas the Forest Kingfisher is usually a crisp, bright white.

• Head Markings: Sacred Kingfishers have a small buff-colored spot just above the bill, while Forest Kingfishers have much larger, distinct white "headlights."

Source - Google Gemini

https://www.google.com/search?q=googl...