Kingfishers – Family Overview

Kingfishers are small to medium-sized birds belonging to the family Alcedinidae. They are easily recognised by their compact bodies, large heads, long bills, and often brilliantly coloured plumage.

Kingfishers are strongly associated with water bodies such as rivers, lakes, wetlands, mangroves, and coastal areas, though some species inhabit forests and woodland away from water. They typically perch quietly before making swift, direct flights to capture prey.

These birds feed mainly on fish, aquatic insects, crustaceans, and other small aquatic animals, which they catch by plunge-diving or swooping from a perch. Forest-dwelling species often feed on insects, reptiles, and small amphibians.

Kingfishers are generally solitary and territorial, especially around feeding areas. Many species nest in burrows excavated into riverbanks or earthen slopes, where both sexes participate in incubation and chick rearing.

The family is widely distributed across Africa, Europe, Asia, and Australasia. India supports a rich diversity of kingfisher species, ranging from widespread resident birds to seasonal migrants associated with freshwater and coastal habitats.

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Licensing & Prints

Selected photographs from this bird family are available for licensing and fine-art prints. You can explore curated images in the Kingfishers collection on BirdsPhotos Shop.