Despite being able to remain still for extended periods, his striking presence is evident due to his nearly shimmering orange feathers.
The Madagascar pygmy kingfisher (Corythornis madagascariensis) is a diminutive kingfisher species, measuring approximately 13 cm in length and weighing between 17 and 22 grams. It possesses a vibrant orange plumage on its head and back, almost resembling a fluorescent glow, accompanied by violet hues along the edges of its nape and rump. The neck features white patches that extend towards the nape. The primary feathers on its wings are black, while the underparts showcase a white coloration from the chin to the undertail-coverts. Its sides display a rufous shade, complementing the orange bill, black eyes, and orange legs and feet.
The resemblance between male and female birds is striking, as they bear a strong similarity in appearance. However, when it comes to juvenile birds, they exhibit a less vibrant and less pronounced violet hue compared to their adult counterparts.
These avian species are exclusively found on the island nation of Madagascar.
Madagascar Kingfishers are found along the western margins of dry deciduous forests below 1,000 meters and rarely above 1,200 meters.
They like to dine on frogs and insects as well as shrimp. However, they will sometimes take small reptiles as they have no dependence on water.
During the breeding season which is in the rainy season, running from October through to January both the male and the female build a nest by digging a tunnel around 30 to 35 cm long and 5 centimeters wide in an earth bank. Up to four eggs are laid within which are incubated by both birds. The incubation is thought to last somewhere between two to four weeks
Though the population of this bird has been declining for the last several years they are still regarded as of Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.
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