Kingfisher

Alcedo atthis

Kingfishers are shy birds, but unmistakable if fortunate to be seen.

 Male and female are similar in size and colouring (bright blue and orange). They inhabit slow-moving or still water lowland habitats in Scotland and as their name suggest feed on small fish as well as aquatic insects. They nest in burrows excavated into the riverbank or nearby quarry, with eggs laid between April and June.

How to be responsible when watching wildlife >

Discover more about the Kingfisher

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

All year round but particularly active during the summer when feeding young.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Slow-moving or still streams and rivers in lowland areas.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Dipper

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Kingfishers have a transparent third eyelid that allows them to see fish when they dive underwater.

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

All year round but particularly active during the summer when feeding young.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Slow-moving or still streams and rivers in lowland areas.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Dipper

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Kingfishers have a transparent third eyelid that allows them to see fish when they dive underwater.

Binoculars Icon Blue
When to see

All year round but particularly active during the summer when feeding young.

Map Icon Blue
Where to see

Slow-moving or still streams and rivers in lowland areas.

Dolphin Icon Blue
Related species

Dipper

Book Icon Blue
Did you know?

Kingfishers have a transparent third eyelid that allows them to see fish when they dive underwater.

Book your opportunity to see this wildlife