The forest kingfisher watches from a high perch, dives to the ground or water to seize its prey (sally-pouncing), then returns directly to the perch.
Not listed
At a glance
FamilyKingfishers
SizeMedium
RarityCommon
HabitatIt is found in Indonesia , New Guinea and coastal eastern and Northern Australia .
Best timeReported across most months in Queensland, with no narrow seasonal peak.
Sounds
Sound sampleRecorded by nick talbot
Range map
Range map
2119visible hotspots
91435visible records
4states
Low confidenceMediumHigh confidence
Aggregated occurance data is sourced from 14 different actively-updating datasets including eBird Australia, iNaturalist Australia, BirdLife Australia, and multiple state-based bird surveys through Atlas of Living Australia.
Species notes
Overview
Note bright white spot in front of the eyes that does not extend back over the eye. In flight shows diagnostic large white wing panels.
Behavior
Often perches prominently, including on powerlines and trees.
Gallery
Regional timing
New South Wales
Queensland
Northern Territory
Victoria
Australian Capital Territory
Western Australia
Tasmania