You will find this stocky, large-headed bird with a shaggy crest perched along the edges of streams, rivers and lakes searching for fish. Listen for the loud rattling call signaling you're in their territory. Kingfishers dive for their prey from an overhanging branch or hover, bill downward, to plunge into the water for their dinner. The female looks like the male in this photograph, except she will have an additional chestnut-colored band on her chest.
"Belted Kingfisher-my first sighting ever!" 07/06/14
Kathy Johnson Durham, North Carolina
